Over time buyers were buying older homes that they had no idea had asbestos siding underneath the current siding. 

You can get a good idea of major damage by doing a thorough inspection underneath.

We want to have exposed ceilings in the building, right now there is drywall and popcorn ceilings but underneath is some pretty cool wood.

All signs of floor joist rot, damage or settlement underneath.  

The valley is where the soil is most fertile.    

I bought a lot for $60k+$10-15k (clearing woods and importing soil) built a $220k house and sold it for $415k.

The soil is very expansive out here, especially in comparison to California.

Moreover, Brokers and salespersons similarly have no special training, knowledge or experience with regard to evaluation of possible environmental conditions which might affect the Property pertaining to the dwelling, such as the existence of radon gas, formaldehyde gas, airborne asbestos libers, toxic chemicals, underground storage tanks, lead, mold or other pollutants in the soil, air, or water."

I need to get my feet underneath me before I can run swiftly

More than likely you will need to be a Broker as many Brokers(An agent has to be sponsored by a Broker) do not want agents underneath them engaging in property management due to the high liability