Although water / environmental risks could be problematic. 

Just off the top of my head:Physical ThingsProperty inspection  (should have professionally inspected)All major systemsElectricalPlumbingHeatingRoofStructuralEnvironmentalEtc.Property conditionTenant ConditionProperty LocationNear noise / environmental factFinancial / PaperworkLeasesDurationRent AmountLate FeesCondition reportsTenant applicationsBasic Contact infoEmployment infoEmergency contact infoEmailTenant Estoppel StatementInsuranceProperty Tax statementWell, there is a quick start.  

A Hybrid contract of sale... a way to close more transactions by joint venture A commercial contract of sale, 3 pages with special buyer requirements related to environmental conditions, existing suppliers, surveys, buried oil tanks and other conditions that must be known to make a profitable and safe transaction An option agreementAn informational pocket pack with 52 options to financing and control a building without conventional financingBlank checks, pens, carbon paper, A list of referencesDisclosures for lead paint and other state or federal requirementsCell phone with camera to take pictures of the nice things and negative aspects of the property and to take a picture of the contract to email confirmation to seller and to your title company or lenderA gift, something for the seller to remember you by, I give Indian Head Nickels away, pens, note pads.Blank addendum forms - these are used to attach to your purchase agreements (you don't want a lot of chicken scratching on your contracts; use them to write some of the following; 1.

I personally manage my local properties, as well as some for my relatives here.I am looking to expand my footprint in the markets I am currently in, as well as entering into my long ago home town of Milwaukee.

I currently work as an environmental consultant writing U.S.

Writing down your goal is important in achieving it and that's what you have done.Now, with that said since you are not familiar with the niches, I added three of the most popular ones for you to review and decide on one, focus on it like a laser and then expand your footprint to the others at a later time.Don't be afraid to revisit the forums to pose questions which you may/will have.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/01/31/ultimate-beginners-guide-real-estate-wholesaling-2/ (Ultimate beginners guide to wholesaling)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/01/07/flipping-houses/ (step by step guide to flips)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums, Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze and Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs and webinars REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

Need a history of who has been there and look at environmental issues.Code requirements are much tougher on commercial.Verify the lease with the tenant.Get mechanical inspections, electrical and plumbing as well as general condition, commercial HVAC is $$$$$!

You can do some research of your own by looking up environmental fines, backed up taxes, and water bills. 

I'm 27 years old and currently completing an Environmental Tech diploma and am extremely broke (student budget).

No permit was required because we did not change the footprint of the house.