I have access to my local credit union and small regional bank as well.Any advice would be appreciated.Thanks,Hillary 

I know of a guy here in the greater Seattle area that might be able to advise or at least get you in touch with someone locally that is reputable.The key here, IMHO (and I am not an attorney or anything), is to keep everything stabilized.

I find my deals off-market and do some cosmetic updates.In short, it's not for everyone and many will fail trying to run this playbook from out of state (or even locally).There are still areas and markets that work, you just need to be more creative or willing to put more work in than you did in the past.

Many nuances to all this but ... consult with a local roofer that you TRUST for the details.

Alternatively join a local REI Association and get it from them along with ongoing support and networking.

Most of the liaisons that the lender provides for "guidance" are not local and don't know the ins and out of construction in NYC.

If not I have one that helped me figure out an estimated return as well as analyze the local market and how I figured out an estimated vacancy rate. 

Then they may see the units with their inspector and get actual leases, etc (after signing NDNC).What local agent(s) are you working with?

I would google and find a local REI or Land lord Association and join them.

Since we cannot buy local (cap rate in CA is pretty low), we are exploring different markets.