During this period, you should be also be able to minimize any other risks by observing the condition of the property.Hope that helps!

My unfortunate position, however, is that I am overseas and half to trust the observations and opinions of others.

@Nik Moushon Hey Nick, Thanks for that input.I definitely can see where your point stands as I am one who firmly believes money involving friends & family don't stir up well either (experiences & observations from business)

Talk with a local RE attorney.I know that in property line disputes, that if both parties have been incorrectly recognizing the wrong line for a long time, the observed line often becomes the defacto property line.I'm not clear if something like that would apply, but it would be good to know if your the possible outcomes are 1) you don't have to do anything vs 2) You must dig up the sewer line and move it.

And would the termite inspector even include reports about minor wood rot in his report, or was he probably just being "helpful' by sharing his observations with the buyer?

But my first major obstacle is actually where to observe and analyze this data and what exactly am I looking for. 

People rarely have all the information but they have pieces of it, maybe anecdotal, that on average will sway the consensus and give a better prediction.In my unscientific observation, there has been a dramatic uptick in people asking if a crash is coming, here on BP and in the news. 

As a new agent I certainly looked over this myself, but as I’ve started to do so I’ve realized driving around and observing and taking notes about the area is doesn’t really feel “primitive” or “old school” but instead feels natural, enjoyable and in my case allows me to connect with my local market and neighborhood.

Up until a couple of months ago, when I started listening to the podcast, I thought that my real estate goals were out of reach, unlikely, and down right ridiculous based on the poor models I have observed.

Resellers can be a good source of notes once you're investing for your OWN account-- as long as you're dealing with someone reputable who may be able to get you double-digit returns for some nice passive income.)Anyway, as you refer the notes you find, you watch what the investor does, observe what they'll accept or not accept, and for the notes they accept, you earn a certain amount without putting up any of your own money.