Road Map in Basic RE Investment (SFR/MultiFam)

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Hello all!

I'm a new RE investor looking to start out, and have a few questions in terms of road map for basic SFR.

I understand that order of play is very different in each deal, but it'll be helpful to get the general idea on how a "basic" deal plays out. I've read multiple books on the topic, so I'm trying to piece together what I've learned with real life examples from seasoned investors. With the basic in mind, I can start adding more advanced ideas like seller-financing, BRRR, etc.

Please correct me if I'm wrong: From where I am (enough capital to get started), I first need to work with the lender to get the pre-approval. Next (or simultaneously) is engaging RE Agent to arrange showing the properties I might be interested in. Then with various strategies in mind, you make an offer through the agent and negotiate with the seller. Now say you have met half-way and sign the settlement through the agent. Then you get the key. You do the upgrades/rehabs as necessary. Find tenants, and rent out based on the rental contract.

I've abbreviated key steps quite a bit, but this is high level overview. My questions are: 

1. If you are a first-time home buyer and the intention is to use it as Rental Property, would banks be reluctant to lend money? My understanding is that they typically like owner-occupy housing.

2. I've read that typically seller's are responsible for paying RE Agent's commission. Is this something that is typical and everyone is in understanding or ask to ensure this is the case?

3. Title Transfer and other regulatory paperwork - are these typically taken care of by the agent during the transaction, and are there ways to verify the title has been transferred to the correct party?

4. Rental Contract - are these usually reviewed by RE lawyers or download a copy from BP/other trusted websites? 

5. Do I supply the offer letter or is this something agents prepare? If I want to add inspection clause etc., do I communicate with them?

6. At which point should I have the house inspected? Before the offer or after? (I understand that the answer is depends on the situation such as popularity of the house, etc). 

Apologies for the long thread. Thanks for your help!