So do a simple $50 title search now with a local title company and learn what you are getting into now, before investing lots of $$$ and time into the deal.

My online searches and schemes have led me to Spokane a couple times.

Full search, perhaps additional risk premium.

However, I am considering working with local realtors to identify  properties with potential at good value and hire my own General Contractor to get it fixed (the BRRRR business model) 

To start, I'm eyeing foreclosures and I have identified a couple attractive ones (in good school districts, right price point, etc) and I intend to try and get a walkthrough on those properties.

Please read my profile for more about me, and what I'm searching for.I look forward to communicating with BiggerPocket members!

How did you identify and begin to build a working relationship with a portfolio lender?

I have buyers who don't know what or where they are looking so I don't narrow my auto-search down for them other than the basics (2-4 units for example).

Try searching for mortgage brokers in your area or state.Have you tried this posting in the Indiana forum? 

@Adam Schneider Thanks for the suggestion... though I'm not sure what AAPL is and when I google search I get Apple stock info. : )   Though I'm a fan of their product, I'm pretty sure that's not what you were suggesting.