If the buyer has proof of completing multiple projects and their real estate agent has a documented business history they are probably not wasting their time playing a game about a POF as failing to perform is just a waste of everyone's time (may have legal fees incurred as well).If it's an unknown newly formed LLC, an offer with minimal cash to escrow, with a shady attorney and realtor, I'd then be taking a hard look at proof of funds.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history very important!

Quick tip: When you find a meetup that interests you, check the organizer's post history and engagement in the community - it's usually a good indicator of their true intentions.

So looking at the history of Big Bear, appreciation is there, but is spotty at best.

Things like the demographics of the area, crime, ages of property, history of the area, known property disputes, etc all help. 

Im looking to start investing upstate if it makes sense. thanks I went to school in Westchester county, great place.  

You only need a place to track tenant information, payment history, maintenance, etc.

You only need a place to track tenant information, payment history, maintenance, etc.

single family homes in the city are a relative bargain right now, depending on school district...

It's in a Class A suburb (great schools, low crime) and has appreciated but I feel that property taxes are a big high relative to home value.