I have short credit history, just switched lines of work (from food service to insurance adjuster) and have no savings, my parents have no equity on their house, none of my friends seem interested to join me so it has me asking... is passion and motivation enough?

All of the college students will likely fail the "reliable job history" test. 

I am prepared for C and D class areas so long as the property has a strong rental history and I can find a property owner who is willing to sell with acceptable terms for both of us.

(from the tax assessor's database) and ownership history (who owned it, how mortgages and any other liens on the property, if the owner is deceased, etc.). 

There is also the Eastern Mass REIA meeting in Taunton.  

I told her, "rental history and criminal background are what I look for."  

If you have a business you've been operating and has been profitable, good credit history, and have a well laid out proforma/business plan of what you expect from buying a building, then the banks will.  

Ideally I would like to run credit check on all applicants and pick up the one with strongest job / credit and rental history, is that advisable or should I check in order of first come first serve and return back the application fee of others.Also would love to know your choice of website for credit check / other verifications.Thanks for your time !

My county's web site has an interactive map & when you click on a property the full tax history comes up along with the name & address of the owners.

Yes especially if credit or payment history is a concern .