Particularly on competitive offers, previously most offers would have had similar mechanics, in that the seller was paying both parties brokers.

@Brandon Brown you have either done a boat load of research or have background in mechanicals! 

I plan on handling most of the cosmetic updates and mechanical repairs, to a point.

Don't drive a new car to town; we have some of the best body and mechanics in Texas - in chop shops.Ah, just kidding. 

I just graduated from college in June with a degree in mechanical engineering, but I've found that my true passion and interest is in real estate.

TL;DR:  You will likely need to pay taxes in both the U.S. and Canada, but the Canada-U.S. tax treaty provides mechanisms to avoid double taxation.  

Under California foreclosure law, can a vendor place a mechanics lien on a home for work performed for the prior owner after the foreclosure sale and the recording (perfecting) of the deed?

All of your mechanical systems are interconnected, and you will want to know from your electrician if you will need to upgrade the service no matter which direction you go.

I ask it because every liens drop in a buy of Tax sale (minus the municipal and mechanical liens... unti where I know) and I payed all of delinquent tax when I buyed it from the Alabama Estate.

Just like anything it comes down to doing your due diligence and inspecting the property before you buy it so you are aware of the age of the capex and all the mechanicals.