Sites like realtor or zillow or even trulia don't have many good choices.

As an example, assuming your purchase price is $175,000, give the active/greedy person a $17,500 (10%) earnest money check - or better yet, $26,250 (15%) if you have the funds, made out to THE ESCROW COMPANY OF YOUR CHOICE.  

Heat pumps are all electric systems- so if you're considering PV solar panels some day, then be sure to mention that to your HVAC contractor- it could affect the choice of system options. 

When you find exactly what you want, look at your list of possible choices and then make a decision.  

So if Chicago takes a dip, you have a choice, sell or buy.

I have found Walter DeVenne with Bay National Title Company to be a great choice for real estate investors.

Such are the choices for a note investor. 

KW was the right choice for me!

Independence title in Ft Lauderdale seems to be the wholesaler/flipper title co. of choice, as they are active in the local REIA's.

HSA's are the only sane choice, once you can fund them.