Norfolk, Newport News and Hampton have all the data on website, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Portsmouth are lacking critical fields but if you call the office they will give it to you.

I have been warned recently by a more experienced investor that it is critical to inspect for lead and asbestos during due diligence as there could be serious health, legal, and financial risks to not doing so?

They do look at your finances, but not as critically as SFH.Good luck

Having experienced and trustworthy Team members is critical.  

But what I'm about to tell you is more valuable than any MBA.Everything you have outlined comes down to one critical thing:Creating cash flow.This is the single most important (and also most misunderstood) concept.Consider your expenses.

I would appreciate any/all ideas, suggestions, and/or criticisms.

How critical that is, is up to the lender.Good luck!

The fundamentals for appreciation, supply and demand etc, are going to be very critical in the long run.

That is critical. 

Is this critical knowledge to have?