So that tells me if people residing here PRIOR to MY move in says there's mice.

I'm now interviewing contractors and would love to get any recommendations for people that you've worked with in the area. thanksJoseph

Renting to people that aren't friends can be great, but also, one tenant can make everyone's lives miserable, so that's why I start with short leases in the beginning. 

Find the lender who knows a lot of people.

(The other scammers are from posts here on Bigger Pockets from people with similar situations as mine) McMann Commercial Lending, Walter Trock & Michael LanzaGenie Investments - David Hughes and Mike ConnerSilversky capital out of Lubbock, TX.Jerry Yang and Guatam ShahSmartZip - Smart ZipAmerican Money Loan ServicesTom Vanderlaan.FLIP AND FAST LOANS LLC.Also read this post.

Above those two, scheduling and time blocking are usually where people are failing.

I am looking forward to meeting new people and learning about REI.

As the popularity grows and people become more nomadic, I think we're going to see more and more of this.

You mentioned that you did your due diligence and that the people behind the project are legit.

I did what I suggest worried people do.