The worst ones usually don't have any clear cut guidelines (a lot of the underwriters will make up their own rules if they do not like the deal), Suck at communicating (will reply days later), Push aggressive terms to get deals in and then switch them, and Not really motivated to get things done (they will adverse a loan without any hesitation). 

If the sample(s) that tested over the threshold were from under a window (which is the norm), you probably need to address the window frame/sill and I'd recommend just cutting to the chase and painting them. 

After you find the list, are investors directly contacting the owners to cut a deal and buy the home before the tax sale?

I was initially told there was an HOA but eventually found out it's not active and there's a lady who lives somewhere on the street that pays a lawn company to cut and trim everyone's yard. 

Understanding the local market, neighborhoods, and community dynamics can provide you with a valuable edge in making informed investment decisions.

I’d love to cut the cost of our rent and maybe have a profit on top.My questions are: How does the market look for House Hacks at this time?

Never took an hour to remove it or an hour to install it. 1. shut off water supply line(turn handle) 15 seconds2. flush toilet 10 seconds3. vacuum and drain water 2 minutes maybe 4 lay out cardboard(from toilet box) put out trash bag5 remove 5/16 nuts one on each side with hollow shaft nut driver 2 minutes6 pick up toilet and place into bag 2 minutes7 clean up old wax ring from flange and inspect flange 2 minutes8 place wax ring 1 minute9 install new flange bolts 1 minute 10pick up toilet and place on new ring if you didn’t ring right maybe 5 minutes 10 tighten down new bolts 2 minutes 11 cut bolts and install caps 2 minutes 12 reinstall water line 1 minute and turn on 13 flush to check for leaks 14 caulk back of toilet seal if you choose 1 minute15 carry away toilet to truck 10 minutes tops. this a 30 minute job.

Anything with HOA or condo fees will cut into cash flow. 

I got this property at the right time, it was on the market for $699,000.00, seller needed to sell, I offered $550,000.00 after they cut to $650,000.00 and we agreed on $600,000.00.

I agree Don and in my earlier days in Northern CA brokerage activity it was common for listing agent to take less than selling agent.. when I moved North to OR WA it was the opposite listing agent would take a larger cut and they would justify it saying they did that because they had to pay for advertising and marketing etc..