Thus allowing you to set automatic late fees in case the tenants doesn't pay before the end of grace period. 

Access to the MLS doesn't really give you any advantage.Everyone is struggling to find deals.

i find a different handyman when the first handyman that said he was going to be there on Tuesday to put the flooring in doesn't show up. 

It doesn't sound like you need to do anything with it in your market.

I also think that you should plan on looking for a place that doesn't have a lot of issues with regulations etc so you don't have to go that way.A HELOC is a good way to get started. 

I specify that it has to be at least 1000 square feet (SF) (bigger the better), it doesn't have to be a 3+BR, but if it's not and at least 1000 SF I can convert it to be a 3BR.

This was the issue I had with Stessa, single entry and that doesn't allow for JEs. 

If the seller doesn’t meet your number, shake their hand, give them your business card, and say, “Call me when you’re ready to deal.”

There are likely at least subtle differences between those proposals.In terms of good and bad experiences, you won't find an insurance company that doesn't produce happy and unhappy customers.  

I would just recommend choosing a property that doesn't need heavy rehab.