The unit just needs cleaning, painting, and a few repairs.

No matter where, when, or what, each will require a good cleaning, and basic maintenance check.

Even regular attorneys can, and often do, get issues of incorporation and asset protection wrong.

If the units are non-smoking and you have to clean the units in a manner to remove smoking odors and stains, then by all means keep the deposit. 

But I want to have as much knowledge as I can so when I do turn 18 I can be great at this and not have to have a regular 9 to 5.

There are about 4 REIA meetups in the Fresno area that meet regularly - all of then have some very experienced investors as well as beginners who are still trying to learn the ropes - you can go to Meetup.com to find the ones most convenient for you to attend.  

This is what we have decided for the scope of work on the rehab:Professional mold remediation with basement clean-up ($4600)Conversion of the family room on the 1st level to a 4th bedroom. ???

I was wondering if anyone had experience with them and would be willing to share (*ahem) some strategies.I'm also unclear on what needs to happen after a purchase to clean up the title and ensure there are not other liens... 

Credit probably needs about 3-4 months to clean up.

The reason I'm considering this, is because I'm planning to purchase a 2nd property, and feel that my current prop mgt company knows more as far as neighborhood, rent potential, repair, etc compared to the regular real estate agent.Any thoughts ?