Don't accept any offers of a payment plan or other nonsense.

Not sure what new western is, but in general you generate a target list using a tool like propstream and you call it asking if they would accept an offer on the property.

Accept their decision. 

I'll look into getting a DBA right away.So after the DBA (ABC Management for example), when I am creating a bank account to manage the funds for the property I can accept checks written out to ABC Management even without a corporation or LLC linked to the DBA?

However, if he does not accept, I think I can rent for $1600, however I would have to convert into an apartment layout, bathroom, kitchen, etc.

Hey Mark,I would speak with your insurance agent as they should tell you the requirements - fencing around the pool, gate with a locking mechanism, etc.I personally own a rental with a pool and the insurance agent walked my rental to ensure it was acceptable. 

You need a lot of properties to target to find both 1) property that meets your criteria and 2) motivated seller willing to accept your offer

Still, if there's no exit but I can live in the property that would be acceptable too.

You're not likely to get a lot of replies here because it really doesn't matter.You need a bank account that can send and accept payments.

Will banks accept that money from a HELOC as a down payment?