The other benefit to getting pre-approved first is that it will give you part of what you need to take action once you find the property you want.

If they press the issue make sure to request proof before any actions are taken and then resort to your lease.  

During this period start taking tiny steps (others say TAKE MASSIVE ACTION, so the magnitude is all relative).I say take tiny actions such as attending a MeetUp while you read books about Real Estate or listening to podcasts.OH, your question? 

Hey @Scott AndersonGood work on taking action and getting the first 2 rentals under your belt. 

I would prefer someone local in Scottsdale/Phoenix that I can grow with to develop a course of action on my current rental as well as future multifamily purchases. 

That said, political action like this can be contagious.

Continual studying without taking action can certainly lead to "analysis paralysis" but just jumping in and taking action before you have some idea of what you're doing is a great way to lose money and possibly get into legal trouble.

@Michael Street as others have pointed out, there's not enough information in your post to determine what the best course of action is for you.

Don't let this risk prevent you from taking the action you need to take. 

Now this might be a coincidence but enough coincidences have happened for BP to put a drop-down menu where you have to state if you have a pre-existing relationship with the company, product of service mentioned in the discussion.While it's great that you're taking action, you can save yourself the hassle and time by following some common sense tips by going through the forums for free.