Hey Samantha! You're definitely on the right track, looking for a CPA who can help you with tax planning rather than just prepare returns.
The audit support question is also a good one to ask upfront, since some real estate strategies can make you more open to IRS scrutiny. In addition to asking whether they provide audit support, I would also ask whether they have experience defending the specific strategies they recommend.
An in-person CPA can be helpful, but a lot of firms that specialize in what you need work virtually now and work with clients nationwide, which can be especially helpful if you plan on investing in multiple states or growing your portfolio outside of your local area.
You're in a great place to find what you are looking for. There are a lot of CPAs out there answering questions in threads just like this one. I’d reach out to a few, interview them, and see who you connect with and who seems like the best fit for your goals. Happy to connect!