I ask for previous landlord info but I personally have never called a previous landlord for all of the reasons @Kevin Sobilo mentioned. 

That's my personal opinion.

If you decide to buy a property like this you probably need to buy it cheaper, get multiple quotes, and talk to contactors in person.

If you need any help navigating the insurance side of things for your new property, feel free to reach out! 

Also, in the rental agreement, it says:"HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNITY: OWNER of rental property shall not be liable forany damages and/or injury to TENANT and/or their guest(s), or their personal propertydue to TENANT’S acts, actions or neglect.

So short-term equity lines, credit cards, etc. will start to feel that. 

A great way to network and meet people in your local community is to attend in person meet ups.

@Anthony Gayden  were @Steve Vaughan  is challenged with one word responses I am personally challenged on the computer requirements.. once I get that figured out..

I don't feel the need to to do either of these. 

You can refinance with a loan that uses your personal income and debt to income / DTI ratio or a DSCR loan that will use the rental income to structure the loan.