Section 8  rates (and lower) will also give you a rough idea of what your market rent will be.Yours is an object lesson in the mistake of buying what you can afford up front rather than what is a good opportunity.People just starting out should only buy local, that they themselves can inspect and get a feel for.

Inspections--house, termite, possibly separate roof and structural8. 

They already have a track record (good or bad) with you, so you can decide based on payment history, inspections, etc.

I hark back to the dude I know of who has a 1000 doors, he still shows up personally for every inspection.

You need to register, but there is no inspection in KCMO unless the tenant complains. 

You’d need a professional inspection or sewer scope to confirm if the sewer line is affected.

I was lucky enough to find a property just a few blocks from my TK purchase that was in excellent condition, fully tenanted with two units, passed the inspection with flying colors and is grossing close to the 2% rule.

Confirm fireplace has been cared for as part of your quarterly inspection.

The benefit of a permit and inspections is to have an independent party verify work. 

I recommend a full inspection before occupancy, at least one per year, and a full inspection after they move out.