., take the pick of the litter before it hits the mls and pass the rest on to the "non-licensed" investors]?

We can, we can search for terms in either the public remarks or realtor only remarks sections...

Don' t use the local classifieds anymore since it is expensive and non productive.

Are there any public or commercial tools available to track theses variables.

With that info you can ask for references, check public records, and make a more informed decision.I would feel more comfortable if they were experienced in the following areas:Local/state laws and ordinancesBudget managementFinancial analysis/projectionsEvictions/CollectionsLeasing proceduresProperty maintenanceMarketing/Advertising for new tenantsTaking it a step further, you can even request pictures, brochures, etc.of any properties they are currently managing.

No the MLS is not a public utility, is a means of distributing information to brokers and their agents to cooperate in the sale of real property.

Non investor family member contacted me about todays closing.

Intrest rates can normally be bought down (read pre pay some of the interest) but rates are always higher on non owner occupied RE loans.

California and although the real estate market is still going well, its a little "pricey" for a public high school teacher's salary (me!)...

Home prices in various metropolitan areas for the 2nd quarter -- there are still some double digit growth markets, but if you look at the overall, growth is small or non-existent (the midwest is pricing at 2% lower since last year).http://money.cnn.com/2006/08/15/real_estate/metro_prices_table/index.htmWhat does this mean, especially coming from me?