what are your favorite tools to discover and compare real estate markets?

I love having real estate in my portfolio 

I think it will depend a little on local markets.

@Thomas SehonRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

If you’re concerned speak with a real estate attorney. 

What key factors should first-time borrowers consider when securing funding for their initial real estate investment?

Hi Everyone,I am a somewhat new Real Estate Investor in Vermont (Bought my first property two years ago).

I’m know to the real wastage investing game.

I've developed a real estate agent on the island of St Croix (Cynthia Taylor) to help evaluate the properties and guide my offer. 

@Pedro C.It depends on the value of the property but for the typical basic property it’d be something like say $2,000 set-up fee and say $550 yearly maintenance fee.