If you are wanting something longer term, then an LLC might be a better choice.    

You can do this through networking, finding properties that you like and send out letters or calling the owners, etc.I know it may not be immediate satisfaction, but given your (and my) situation we don't have much of a choice if we want to be savvy investors and deals are not readily available. 

It's not even a choice.  

Your "empire" can be much larger than his and you have the choice of who maintains it. 

, but it seems to be less popular and I'm not sure why.Additionally, I was hoping to just get more information on lending to out of state investors as well as hear thoughts from people familiar with the Cleveland area for real estate.

My name is Michael Baes and I am a Personal Trainer by trade and real estate investor by choice.

@Sitha Nhok Good material choices!

SO Desjardins would be my choice.

If you need a local agent I would recommend Trusted Choice to locate one for you:https://www.trustedchoice.com/

Things even a private investor doesn't want to trip up on but not at the center of their choices nor activities.If you have an active sales person license you need to be under a broker.