So to start, I am somewhat new to real estate investing as I have yet to close my first deal, but have been an avid consumer of all real estate investing knowledge for over a decade, and have recently decided what better time than now to really get actively involved in investing in real estate.

To make a long story short, their actions lead me to believe something was't right, and that is why I asked the question.

Call local for rent signs and see if they are looking to "add to their portfolio", make sure your CL ad is worded in the language an investor speaks, and use postlets.com.What kind of action have you had?

I just hope I can turn all this knowledge into action soon, but I feel like I have such a long way to go before I'm ready to jump into something.Thank you to everyone out there who shares your knowledge and experience.

I then am aware that if I do not contact the tenant for action, I will ultimately be responsible for payment of the bill because the PROPERTY is owned by me, not the tenant. 

but you don't have to let those feelings stop you from taking action.   

It wasn't long ago that I started in your shoes, I'll tell you though that if you educate yourself as much as possible, create a vision, make a plan and then take action on each step of that plan, you will get there.

In Ohio there is a special land contract law.It is a contract for deed, where a buyer buys on contract.Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5313http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/5313See 5313.08 Action for forfeiture and restitution. 

Just don't let it stop you from taking action.

Again, as to compliance issues, understand what prudent lending practices are and what is seen or can be seen as predatory, this applies to commercial or consumer financing, just that consumer loans are heavily regulated.