Since refinancing and investment income (like rental income) usually aren’t seen as earned income, it likely won’t affect your mom’s survivors' benefits.However, if your mom’s survivors' benefits are based on disability (SSDI), then additional financial or property assets could trigger a review, so you might want to consult a CPA or financial advisor to be sure there are no unintended consequences.This isn't legal advice.

Review all leases and match them with the rent roll and ledger.

For me if someone has a negative review I typically consider something else, if its positive then I would continue to do my own research but do not really go off of others.

You can really tell that on reviewing the comps with a good agent on the MLS.

The best way to get in tune with the local market is to review what recent cash sales have been in the same community as the subject property.

I would post it here on BP and let people review it and provide some feedback.

Quote from @Vicki Karpovich: Thank you for reviewing these options so clearly. 

Anything they don't provide I'd for sure get and review before due diligence is over 

You can also search Google and read reviews.

I just won my first tax sale property and if all goes well (AKA the judge reviews the property and approves everything) I will likely go down the tax sale rabbithole as the property I bought was pennies on the dollar (hopefully noone broke in and stole the copper plumbing lol)