It has worked great and as another poster indicated anytime you write a check you are providing someone you account number so I never was worried about that.A few days ago Wells Fargo (our current bank) sent us a notice that they no longer (starting before next months rents are due) are accepting cash deposits from people not listed on the account. 

When I find this out I think it indicates a seller needing OUT.So I ask  you, even though there are many of these houses in the higher price ranges, do you think the price of $300 K to about $1,5 mill is to high to make a profit ?  

@Jennifer DoyleThat's way high, as indicated.

I decided to sell the land for phase two and three to a local buyer who indicated he would like to buy for than one or two lots...So I said...sure buy em all.  

I want to put most of my focus on pre-foreclosures, as that is a clear indicator of a motivated seller. 

  -  She donated 8.2 of the 9 million to various charities, so there is no indication her family was "slapped in the face".   

The fact they are complaining online might be an indication the property manager dealt with them properly so be sure to ask the manager for their side of the story.I hope this basic guide helps.

If my research is of any indication, the owner might be looking to turn this land into a development site for a condo.

A building we bought west of Olympia, we were able to look through the rent roll from '07 to '09 and saw nothing that indicated any trouble at all.

You indicated that you are a new buyer.