Most property management companies and employers will ask for a copy of that release section (or a separate release of information form) to prove that the tenant is giving their permission for you to obtain information from others about them.

Also, since we use Cozy, at the bottom of the application there is a legend that says that the applicant has granted permission for us to contact former employers and landlords, is that enough or should I get a different authorization letter from the applicants to send along with the verification? 

(of course in a severe storm trees can go anywhere)You would not need permission to do this.

Filing bankruptcy creates an "automatic stay," which means that creditors (including a landlord) cannot take any action against the debtor (tenant) without court permission. 

I would speak with lenders directly and get their express permission to make a transfer.

., with your permission, i will translate:the best gift you can give your tenants is being a responsive and responsible landlord, not a slumlord/patch-landlord

In Texas, we have an Agent form that gives the Agency / Landlord written permission to run the Credit Report, Contact Previous Landlords, Employers, etc. 

Given that the easement already exists, what is necessary to create a gravel or dirt road to this vacant lot (do we need additional permission from the neighbor owner, a permit, etc.)?

If you do not have the required parking, at every 3 year renewal you will need to pay an additional $100 per missing spot (which is pretty minor concession to allow any property to be a rental). 

Thinking of finding investment property’s for out of state investorsHello David,Your best bet is to find the deal on your own before attempting to sell it to an investor or end user.Homes that are already listed with a Realtor cannot be marketed to potential buyers UNLESS you have permission from the Realtor.