I think it is a personal preference.

I know you will have to work your way through 2-3 levels of customer service before you get to a person with some authority but I would start there.   

I got nailed for this in my early days in Oregon lending in states that did not require a license..So if that's an issues it may be preferable to set up the company in a state that does not require a license . 

Which do you prefer, interest only or repayment?

If the option is avaialble from the lender we prefer to have the insurance escrowed into our monthly mortgage payment along with our property taxes.

Personally, I prefer to do it on my own. 

I’ve found that most of my tenants prefer this over paying with a check and they all have smart phones.

So far it looks like I'll need the following: Realtor, property manager, rehabber/contractor, and a loan person.Extra preference: A cool person friend who's 'made it' through real estate and is caught up with GoTLooking forward to my new home here!

I've read over and over again on the forums if you live on the west coast just invest out of state, but I would prefer to get started around Seattle to grow a portfolio.Very excited about this venture and entering the realm of REI.

I would prefer to be leveraged in all rental properties rather than all cash purchases to maximize cash on cash returns.