I will reference that concerning my next couple of statements.

By this I mean credit check, current employer and length of employment if possible (last 4 pay stubs usually works adequately for me), previous landlords (don't use reference phone numbers check them yourself by looking up the address and getting the person's contact information from publicly available sources - if they're renting they may have something listed currently or in the past.

I read somewhere that in legal speak, a lease is for long term and a rental agreement is for short term, so I refer to my contract as a rental agreement.

I like to get a reference and then ask the reference for another reference (so you get someone who isn't biased or preloaded to give a good review).My wife and I just had our first baby this year and between my California rentals and my Ohio rentals I spend more time on the Ohio ones, but it's all from home so I get to spend more quality time with the family, so that's another benefit one you get a few under your belt.I'll be happy to chat sometime and share a few stories, just PM me.

Do a background, credit check and call job and landlord references.

Any reference to build a team would be greatly appreciated.

Is the option you are referring to a FHA loan?

(Depends on the state and how and when the will was written.)I've heard suggestions that you should ask probate attorneys for leads, but in my experience they won't tell you anything besides referring you to a realtor (and most don't even do that). 

I assume some books are more for introduction and inspiration (Rich Dad Poor Dad, etc.) and some are very useful as a reference and tool (Gallinelli's Cashflow and key financial measures book). 

Anything from the last two housing references?