But they didn’t because it would have gone on their track record.

You can usually get samples of the format from the County Recorder or Court employee who accepts deeds for recording.  

NC is a trustee state, so a mortgage default will trigger the "power of sale" process as spelled out in the recorded Deed of Trust.

Are they typically willing to partner with new brokers, or do they require track record, etc.

Just for the record I am not against owning property in the Caribbean. 

I decided at the beginning I only wanted to rent to people who were gainfully employed (or students that had gainfully employed parents), had no criminal record, decent credit scores, no charge offs or bankruptcies, steady & stable job history, and the like.

These detailed records, (many copies of which had to be scanned & emailed to them), saved us from any 'taxable consequences'. 

Can't comment on Montgomery County but in Philadelphia with respect to tax sales you cannot obtain title until a year from the date the deed is recorded. 

Not good.Look up the property she claims she owns in the county's public records.

Likely you can get those plans with a records request from the municipality where this property is located.You'll need to get surveyor, architect, and civil engineer on board earlier than later.