I'm currently prepping for my real estate exam in a couple weeks to get that side of the business under my belt. any help would be greatly appreciated.... 

Ran me off from RE for awhile; I lost my nerve.

Yes you own your property and you are in the title, but let's examine , if you really can control the ROI.1- Can you control turnover?

I've taken property subject to the existing loan, which is the same issue and yes it rattles the nerves... but the bank knows and they aren't doing a damned thing about it.

Examine what the meaning of relationship is.In life there is the desire for power, an instinct toward self preservation at the cost of others yet we know we are temporary.

My nerves are shot but I'm excited too!

As I have said repeated in these forums, looking up tax records only reveals who or what entity us being taxed but not necessarily the only.To determine the record owner, you need to examine the chain of title. 

However, I'd like to examine your optimum situation, the idea of them giving me the deed prior to sale.  

I examined how the yard was kempt.  

An LLC in Maryland is easy, cheap and provides the protection you are probably looking for. https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/examinations/bsa/...