Base your initial offer on the current financials, keeping in mind that you will manage it better, screen better, and get expenses down and income up.

No tenants and toilets.B/P is a great place to meet cool like minded people that are all here to help each other.

I don't mind showing up but it has to be a reasonable experience (like seeing what the problems are, which may just be inside the units!)

I'm with USAA and I haven't used them yet for a mortgage, but I'll keep your contact in mind. 

Can anyone refer me to a good online credit/background check.

If you go online to sites like ifloor or builddirect they will actually send you 5 free flooring samples for you to see and compare.

The pros far outweigh the cons, which include:Safer living & health conditions for tenantsA peace of mind for you as owner & for tenantsWhich can then in turn directly or indirectly, depending on your perspective & outcome, reduce vacany rates

I guess it's still something to keep in mind! 

Teaching is an awesome and unique experience so far, but my mind and my heart has always had the idea and drive to begin in real estate investing.

@Julio Granda, I'll keep that in mind if stuff falls through on this end.