Also there are reputable firms like Marcus and Millichap that have brokers in each market.

Not a good reputation in this industry.

try 5miles.com  similar to craigslist, but sellers have reputation/feedback.I was going to suggest replacing it with used.stay clear of used apliance stores. 

If you are over $1mm, then I would call a few reputable commercial mortgage brokers. 

A locksmith or a door hardware supplier can help you out on this.  

Builders grade materials look high end from lowes or HD cost maybe 15% less than high end materials from other suppliers that also look nice and may feel nicer.The labor costs are no different when using the more expensive materials, except in cases like tile floor vs LVP since more labor is required for proper subfloor.If you really want to keep costs down go with the cheaper materials.

We are working with the closing's title company - they are reputable and we have an open line of communication with them, and the listing agent, seller's lawyer, and the reputable title company have told us it's clear there are no liens - to make sure we are sufficiently insured in the title insurance, to make sure the title policy has coverage without any of the liens exceptions listed on auction.com:"Most liens are removed after a foreclosure property sale, but certain liens may remain.Here are some examples:Any lien recorded on title prior in time to the foreclosing mortgage.First Mortgage (if the foreclosing mortgage is a second or third mortgage)HOA or COA assessment liens (in certain states)Mechanic’s Liens (in some states)Government liens such as state and federal tax liens, city or county liens, US Government liens.IRS liens (IRS may buy the property within 120 days after sale at the price paid at foreclosure sale)Code Enforcement Liens, Environmental Liens, and Utility LiensChild Support Liens"Is this the right approach for bank-owned?

Find a reputable accountant, this is too big of a decision to listen to someone in an online forum.

We have several properties in neighborhoods that folks typically ignore due to their location/reputation. 

As far as back taxes and liens against the property, if you are working with a reputable title company, they can perform a search of the property and confirm if there are outstanding taxes/liens against the property.