My plan is to buy and hold.I have read on other posts about this problem and some are able to use things like hydrojet or root killer flush with copper sulfate to hold off needing any repairs.

I went to a public hearing on a red card that the town fabricated because a structural inspector decided to do an electrical inspection early.

Our cost to do business vs the revenue a small loan generates would put us in the red.

ya getting disbarred is a HUGE red flag..

Just make sure to check their credentials and experience, and find someone who can explain things in simple terms.Also, keep an eye out for any red flags, like promises of huge refunds without a thorough review or pressure to pay a percentage of your refund.

If you get a red card, you can not proceed.

As a lender it is a big red flag for me when I ask a potential borrower what the ARV and rehab budget is and have them say "well, the wholesaler says xyz".   

This is my first purchase (don't want to do anything stupid) and the rents could swing 600/month depending on what I'm allowed to do in the basement - I'd be in the red from a cashflow perspective if I can't duplex them.Am I rolling the dice here / do you not typically find out for sure until you close and begin renovations?  

Being able to pick their brains is always helpful, both their successes, red flags, war stories, etc.And as Jonathan mentioned, the very first step of actually taking action is knowing how much money you have to allocate to buying a property, fixing up a property (if needed) and how much a bank will lend to you.  

Also, if you have worked with house movers, any advice on things I should avoid or red flags with these guys?