(Approximately 13 states have either state Inheritance Tax or state Estate Tax, so that would possibly apply in other states besides PA.)Welfare LiensNursing home liensMechanics LiensMortgages in order of recording date, first mortgages before second or third mortgagesJudgements (once boought a property where there was alien because the owner got in a bar fight and was sucessfully sued for medical bills esulting in a judgemen.)Federal Tax Liens (Special rrules apply to IRS liens)The precedence of pay off is determined by state law, government first, then the rest by date recorded.Then is anything else is left over it goes to the former owner.On one of our purchases there was a big Nursing Home lien that the Tax Claim Bureau was not aware of. 

Every state has their own laws, court procedures and legal forms pertaining to how decedent's estate are handled, including creditors and heirs.The rules vary widely, however you ought to decide if you are looking to buy the asset (real estate) from the person in charge or the interest of heir(s).Generally speaking, you'll probably want to buy the real estate, so you'll be looking to contact the person who will be able to sell it to you, typically called administrator, or if named in the will, executor, or by the generic term, personal representative.So, I suggest you ask the clerk at your probate court which document will contain the name and address of the person in charge.

But if I bouget it under the LLC, by law I have to buy it also for my employees.

This is useless unless the investor has a foundation in or has first been educated as to real estate principles, real estate law and real estate finance.

They mention some local income tax law. 

But in fairness to everyone and to be in good standing with the laws, should I be scrutinizing everyone this much? 

This applies to nearly all buildings six (6) or more units in NYC or any of the Rent Stabilized localities throughout New York State.I'm NOT active in New York City (or suburbs) any longer due to these guidelines or myriad other anti-landlord rules & laws; however, I can say many realtors do NOT understand what they're selling so BEWARE:  I've had realtors say the units "have preferential rents, isn't that great?"

I'm new to wholesaling and am familiarizing myself with the laws. 

Doing so ensures they've had notice sooner rather than later, and also so they know I'm running a business and not simply enjoying a hobby in real estate.On the other hand, if the tenant doesn't pay the rent when due, the law in Michigan only requires a 3 day notice.

Due to the nature of the possible time and repair costs this may lead to speak with an attorney that can advise you on law suit.