A word about short sale and foreclosure:
It doesn't necessarily mean a good simply because it's a short sale or foreclosure. You really have to analyze the deal. See if it have any profit center: either rental or appreciation, or both.
It seems to me what you need most is somebody local, either an agent who is also an investor, or a local investor who doesn't mind to show you how things go. Once you find a person like that, it's going to be much easier. But it won't be easy to find a good one. See my blog for example.
Failure:
塞翁失馬: 以失敗告終的首次買投資房
Success:
怎麽樣的經紀人/經理是麵向投資方的
Folks here can answer general questions, but an expert with local knowledge is invaluable to your investment success.
Hope this helps.
sunskitehomes.com