(The property will only be shown by licensed agents, we'll have 24 hours notice for all the showings so you won't have any surprises, The new owner will have to follow the lease you're currently in etc. etc.)In my experience setting the right expectations is very helpful, as most of the time tenants are afraid of the unknown. 

The offender was an unknown male in a black vehicle.

While I'm not worried about the "mechanics" of the home, I'm worried about the finances attached that I didn't find in my search and just the unknown of potential liens.  

I agree with you @Alex Silangit can be intimidating especially for so much unknown.

The reality is, it's up to YOU, whether you want to insure your investment against unknown disasters.

If a local lender explains why a particular deal is bad (or good) you don't have to follow, but you should always pay attention.Third, they will understand the prevailing lending rates and terms and they don't have to price associated risks of the unknown into their loans as an out of state lender might.

I live here (Athens Ga) I know the area well and still there are parts that are unknown to me and Athens is really small.

Also, make sure you have a big contingency fund for this deal as you're very likely going to come across some bigger unknown unknown (yes twice) issues...especially since it's an older house. 

I decided that the risk of the neighbors complaining about the hooch smell, the chance that she would be unable to cover the rent after the lease ended and the unknown 22 year old son not being around to help with the rent were overwhelming reasons to not consider this one.Thanks again to all of you for your thoughts. 

Welcome to BP @Jesse CabotUnfortunately, I haven't had the guts to jump in yet.The unknown is scary. the more you know the less scary it gets.