Meet with them to see who they are currently using (if any) and how you stack up against them.Is it you are cheaper, better systems, special programs to constantly tweak to get the owner extra dollars (return).

I don't mean to cast all agents in a negative light (because that would be a gross misconception) - but I bring this up because I've worked with a few who have had a tendency to sugarcoat the facts, distract from the real areas of concern, and are constantly pushing me into a buying now decision (rather than being patient and looking for the right deal).

They have a lot to loose, and will try to avoid as much pressure as possible.

I'm still constantly learning myself, but would be happy to help any way I can.Cheers.

Shortening the amortization will certainly put pressure on the net cash flow from rental income, so be mindful to keep your eye on your ability to debt service.

You could check the property records on the property with the dogs and if it isalso a rental, you might be able to get the landlord to apply some pressure.

The housing crash put so much pressure on these properties so that many of them have been priced below construction costs.

Even if it is covered up, it gets damaged with contractors working on it constantly.

I'm constantly creating, reviewing and updating complicated spreadsheets and databases.

I constantly read over and over that what we are looking for doesn't exist.