You could respond to ads, do online search, use the reference sites, including advo and the local Bar Association, however this may still not get you to a suitable practitioner.I'll bet there will be noticing issues, perhaps litigation. 

@Shavonne Justin Your best bet is to talk a someone with local MLS access to run you some rental comps or talk to a couple local property managers in the area.

When I run my numbers I always base it on what current cash-flow is versus if I go in and raise rents and make upgrades.If you do decide to raise rents however I would do it gradually.

In other parts of the country the assessment value is much closer to actual value but that is not true in Vegas.You are correct that Zillow is hit or miss as well so don't use that for comps either.Your best bet is establish a relationship with a local Realtor that can provide you with solid sold comps for value.

I've seen people talk about rentals and it seems like that is so risky and only slightly profitable due to maintenance costs and vacancy and stuff.Flipping houses seems like a much safer bet with bigger gains judging from the success stories.Again this is probably a stupid question with alot of missing variables.

I'm not looking to invest in NY so I think buying access to MLS in other areas of the country will be my best bet. 

It's one thing if they offer a discount to use cash (or cheque) versus a credit card for payment, but quite another if they offer it strictly for cash payment.As long as you are provided with a detailed invoice outlining the work performed; a receipt for payment; and a lien waver, then take the cash discount.  

But keep in mind that if that Company can get them under Contract for those prices, you can bet that they don't REALLY think they are foregoing $70k of profit for just $25k rehab.

Long term, the whole downtown will be massively changed over the next decade so it could be a good long-term bet.

@Steve Babiak probably knows PA tax requirements.I'll bet it is the full purchase price as amounts financed are irrelevant to a sale price.....I know, your hopes crushed again.