If the company is hesitant, consider their financial statements to assess their stability or negotiate other security measures like a larger security deposit.

I also found a dozen mechanic's liens dating back to 2022 (meaning they didn't pay contractors that did work on the property).I'd like to say I'm shocked that you had no idea this was coming, but I'm really not shocked. 

As Tyler said, we can help you assess communities, home types and even understand occupancy/revenue projections for individual homes.

Doesn't matter if it's 5 calls a day...it's better than zero and will teach you more than a dozen books. 

Assess economic indicators, focusing on job growth and major employers. 

Honestly even at the sub 300kpp I could come up with easily half a dozen areas in the state, i’d rather be in the Baltimore.

You will be be responsible for the transfer taxes equal to the assessed value, plus deed preparation fees and if there is already a loan, that adds another layer of complexity.

(assessed value of the house, or price listed on the ad) x the tax rate of that state! 

There are going to be mistakes and delays by the dozens.....

No question, rental real estate is the best investment provided you assess the risks and make it work for you.