But it's extremely common here for new folks to come on BP with broad stroke questions, without realizing the forum is a searchable database of scores of common questions with a plethora of answers already posted.Mike

The agent's compensation is negotiable and 6% may be more common if that includes the buyer's and seller's agent, but if the 6% only covers the selling agent, then that's a greed reach especially considering it's a 2m+ sale price.

You'll need good contact info for them to be able to collect, and ideally the new address for the tenant however which if you don't have can probably be found easily with some online sleuthing/ contacting their employer, skip tracing software, etc. 

Hey Elizabeth - I'd factor in about $10k to get a padsplit up and running when it comes to furnishing which would include washer / dryer, additional fridge, bedding/desks, common area furnishings if you want to offer a little better experience.I'm only familiar with ATL - I think accounting for 1 move in / 1 move out per month is a good conservative assumption here.$8kish / year or so on routine and reactive maintenance combined which should include your cleanings, lawn care, maintenance calls ect. 12% per month of gross rents should be a good estimate if you want to look at it like that!

For most loans especially for first time homebuyers, your lender wants to see a 2 year work history of the same job that you are or will be working (same thing if you are self-employed).

@Stuart Udis is discussing what commonly happens.  

Fairly common here in Cleveland.

It is important to look for locations with strong economic growth, rising demand for housing, employment, vacation and infrastructure developments, as well as properties that offer the potential for value appreciation or steady cash flow.

It's understandable that you're seeking to invest in real estate to secure your financial future.Background and Financial Situation:Given your circumstances of having $150k in cash from an inheritance, a credit score of 756, and a year of work history, you're in a relatively strong position to begin your real estate investment journey.Strategies Considerations:Out-of-State Investing:Investing in areas with lower property values and employing the BRRRR strategy can be a viable approach.

I am self-employed.