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:塞翁失马: 以失败告终的首次买投资房
Success:怎么样的经纪人/经理是面向投资方的
Folks here can answer general questions, but an expert with local knowledge is invaluable to your investment success.
Hope this helps.
sunskitehomes.com