Most beginners jump straight into a project without realizing that flipping is 80% due diligence and project management long before demo day.Since you’re looking at Baltimore from out-of-state, here’s the workflow I’d follow if I were starting over:1.

REI accounting requires someone who understands property management workflows, including AppFolio integrations, capex vs repairs, security deposits, owner distributions, and unit-level tracking.

PropStream, Batch Leads & Privy — All Still Worth ItNot one platform fits everyone, but:• PropStream: Best for lists + property data• Batch Leads: Best for skip tracing + SMS workflow• Privy: Best for on-market flips and fast comping In 2025, you almost need one “data tool” and one “action tool” to stay competitive. 6.

Could be anything —• A screening question you added• A maintenance workflow that saved you headaches• A tool/software feature you discovered• Something you implemented with tenants that reduced calls• Or even just something simple that improved your sanity 😅I’ll start: For me, adding a required “hold fee” for out-of-state applicants dramatically cut down on last-minute drop-offs.

The strongest workflows include:• Direct-connect income and employment verification, which can’t be edited by the applicant.• Verified rental history through a third party that confirms landlord identity, payment behavior, and prior issues.• Full background searches, including judgments and liens, since those no longer appear on credit reports.• Human-reviewed reports, not automated marketplace lookups.When landlords use a setup like this, it becomes extremely difficult for someone to slip through the cracks.

My goal is to acquire a solid, cash-flowing asset where I can learn and grow as a buy-and-hold investor.I’m also interested in connecting with experienced landlords or property managers who can provide guidance on properly managing small multi-family units—including tenant screening, lease structuring, maintenance workflows, and long-term asset management best practices.What I’m looking for:2–4 unit propertyLocated in NJ (open to several markets)Long-term rental holdValue-add potential is a plusAbility to self-manage with mentorship or guidanceOpen to:Connections with local lenders, brokers, and contractorsIf you have any leads, advice, or would like to collaborate, I’d love to connect.

Keep the workflow simple.The best setup is: enter the applicant’s name and email, they complete a secure link, and identity, income, and background checks are processed together in a compliant system.

It’s been easier day-to-day for me, but I’m not managing 80+ doors for multiple owners like you are, so your needs might be a bit different.If you’re debating between the big PM systems vs. something simpler, it might come down to whether you want full trust accounting + owner portals, or just a faster workflow.

Quote from @Carlos Velazquez: I am new to real estate investing an ventures an need some guidance on attempting to complete a wholesale for my first time.

That’s why I started using tools in my own workflow it keeps everything logged in real time so I’m not trying to piece hours together months later, and it gives me cleaner records if I ever have to prove what I actually did.