I can let you know if it's ever been inspected and what to look out for.MA real estate laws say that you can't rent to a family with kids under 7 unless you have a lead certificate on file with the state and the anti-discrimination laws say you can't not rent to a family because they have a kid under 7 (even if it's because you know there's lead paint), so they basically made it so that any rental with more then 1 bedroom has to be deleaded.

I have a natural anti-salesman skepticism so I'm always on the lookout for whether the investment is the true source of profit, or if selling/talking about the investment is the true 'gold mine'

I am about as anti low appreciation market as they come so if you are asking my opinion then I recommend start local.  

Section 8 inspections will cover extra things like usability and more extensive safety concerns, like ensure that appliances have anti-tipping devices installed (you can basically connect a chain from the back of the appliance to the wall), ensuring that the appliances present in the unit function, that the W/D hooks up accessible and usable, that the yard isn't overgrown with weeds, etc. 

I was hoping to get some clarification on the anti-flipping rule. 

(Medicine, Law, etc)My personal belief is that you should pay off your debt.

Even if it is medicinal, I don't know too many investors that would want to do deals with someone who promotes themselves as a pot smoker.And good luck!

I can let you know if it's ever been inspected and what to look out for.MA real estate laws say that you can't rent to a family with kids under 7 unless you have a lead certificate on file with the state and the anti-discrimination laws say you can't not rent to a family because they have a kid under 7 (even if it's because you know there's lead paint), so they basically made it so that any rental with more then 1 bedroom has to be deleaded.

Remaining items to be addressed before listing this home for rental:Remove and replace downstairs bath vanity and medicine cabinet.Ensure all light switches, receptacles, and plates are uniform white throughout.Ensure working condition of all tubs, sinks, and faucets.Replace old/broken/dirty light fixtures inside and outside the house.Replace motion-sensor light outside back of kitchen.Replace/repair tube lighting in kitchen.

NY has your fill out a anti-arson application when you apply for insurance.