She always told me that she wanted me to own this property but she passed away unexpectedly before she could make me a Will I know that is not any good proof.

If you have written proof that you were only obligated until August 30th, then that is all they can charge you for.It sounds like they are charging you for the extra weeks because you didn't turn in the keys.

I am thinking of replacing all the windows with glass blocks, for security at a minimum.

Your VA loan is a great benefit and you can use it to accelerate your portfolio but it does not fail proof. 

So new locks are perhaps reimbursable, but new kitchen cabinets would probably not be.You need to look at the applicable Alabama law for tax sales.One of the first things you should do is also ask for proof of ownership.   

No, I didn’t proof read and that doesn’t make much sense as it’s written.

Yes, you have to work around tenants need, and I understand them wanting a legit offer with proof of funds before disrupting tenants, but make sure you have a cancel fee in your offer, and refuse to go through if you can’t see it. 

We're home to Winchester ammunition, a couple of Steel Mills, a glass factory, the box company, all of which are gone.

We had to wear suits, respirators, safety glasses, and gloves.

My mind is made up, but thank goodness for this forum and the knowledge I have learned in such a short  time I am now a much more confident landlord in knowing and understanding the TAR contract as well as TAA and my rights etcAlso studying about tenant proofing.