I also graduated from college with honors in business which emphasized real estate. 

I can't emphasize this tool enough since it save a ton of time finding people or stuff you need.Since savy BP members use keywords, it's a good idea to be rich in those terms you're looking for when posting anything here on BP.

@Bridget Vlakancic I want to emphasize point #4 in Caroline's notes above.

IF someone's rent is government subsidized then you are not limited to the 2.3% limit that is throughout the rest of Oakland....I was just at a workshop that the Oakland Housing Authority put on for us landlords that rent to section 8 tenants......and they emphasized this.....

If fraud (and I emphasize 'If' as we don't have all the evidence available to us) is present I want to see those who perpetrated it brought to light and, at a minimum, held up for the public ridicule they deserve.  

Don't "emphasize" anything, just lay the cards on the table, face up.

Again, if you emphasize the contract first and foremost and then include details of what's involved with the contract (property location & description) I don't foresee there being a problem - although others may level accusations out of their ignorance.

I was at a workshop recently in the Baltimore area where it was emphasized that NO money should be paid up front to a contractor; you don't start paying until you see the progress of the work.

Hi All,My Mentor emphasizes the need for carrying out at least one incoming enhancing activity a day. 

Your Realtor - I can't emphasize this enough.