If you have friends or relatives that could refer the names of some real estate service providers, then that could be the best way to get in touch with them. In case that is not possible, then you can browse the advertisements that appear in various media, such as real estate magazines, newspapers or even the Internet. Shortlist at least three real estate investment services, in order to compare their rates and services. Do some research, as to how long they have been in the real estate market. Lower fees should not be the only consideration, but instead experience, honesty and efficiency should be given preference. Crosscheck the firm by asking some of their clients about the services rendered by them.

The firm providing you with real estate investment services should not only guide you to locate profit making properties, but instead should be able to offer you a whole range of other services. Your real estate investment should actually become a basket, in which you not only have properties to sell, but also to rent or lease. In addition, you should also have the option to invest in other real estate securities such as REITs, real estate mutual funds or high yield private mortgage notes. Your risk will therefore be reduced, if your basket contains various products with varying profit margins. You can thus cover a loss caused by one product to be negated by a profit in another. The firm should therefore provide you with expert advice on how much to invest in each product. Ask your investment firm to show you examples, where their other clients have made substantial profits, before you put any money on the table.

The real estate investment services should also be backed up by a strong team of attorneys, contractors, and accountants and have contacts with a wide range of brokers, agents, builders and even mortgage brokers. This will provide you with a wide range of properties and financing options to choose from. They should also specialize to pick up foreclosed or short sale properties, since this method offers you a chance to pick up properties at a highly discounted rate. Their vast experience should result in higher profits to self, which in turn will enable them to earn higher commissions and keep them motivated.

Thus, you need to do a thorough study of the service providers in the market, before you decide on the right real estate investment service that satisfies all your queries and has a proven track record. Double-check all your facts and figures, before you engage them, since the amount involved in real estate deals is quite high and any mistake could prove to be financially fatal for you.