Establish list of critical vendors/services with summarized contract info and contact details:- Pest control (termite bonds?)

You just don't have easy online or convenient access.First, I'd get the principal in a mindset of 'salvaging' something and pushing all risk and time into her side of the transaction.Then, you can schlep down to the courthouse or send a courier or attorney service and get copies of original file, or at least the critical Order.

new to this site and not trying to be critical.

Timely communication is critical in this business and most fail at it.

If there's anything I've picked up from BP, it's that "buying right" is a critical part of investing successfully. 

I need to be able to compare it against other things I can invest my money in, like stocks, loans, flips, etc - that's why the cap rate is critical for me.

It's just part of the gig, because I lend on ARV so it's critical.  

This is critical because, as an out of state investor, you won't be actively managing the day-to-day activities.  

No matter how successful, none of us has unlimited resources so taking the time to plan carefully and w isely is critical to your success.  

The bank will likely (but you can never be 100% sure) call for "highest and best" in the event of multiple offers at full / near (+ or -) asking price.Tip: Good communication between REO realtor and listing agent/bank = CRITICAL!!