Any phrases such as "finished basement or attic", "in-law suite/arrangement", "seller nor listing agent can confirm the legality of the basement/attic unit" are a few common ones.

He confirmed my assumption that the estimates on Zillow, etc. are pretty much junk, that they will regularly be at a minimum 5% off, sometimes much more, and that what he has seen in the past is that new investors have based their numbers (purchase price, rehab budget, etc.) on these inaccurate numbers and what started off looking like a great deal, turned out to be a bad deal for them after the actual comps,  inspection, and assessments. 

We investigated and confirmed, then gave the tenant 30 days notice of termination. 

Do you think I can bid at the sale and if confirmed get clear title?

PropStream - If you use PropStream software, you can find out who the cash buyers are in a specific area8.

The lists below are off the top of my head, but I'm looking for input on processes or software or anything else that can help put this property on autopilot.

There are a ton of things you should check, but here's the most important thing to do FIRST: Get referrals of recent clients and then check them thoroughly.Whatever you're told by the lender, confirm it ALL by speaking directly to the last three or four borrowers.How easy was it to get approved?

Hi BP colleagues,What tools/software are you using currently to identify the best markets to potentially invest in?

If the town confirms there is leakage, you have to run the tests and do remediation.

It's up to your accountant to confirm with you that enough of the burdens and benefits of ownership have passed.If they agree with you then you would do a 1031 right at the signing of the option(actually it can't be an option.