I was told I would be getting an email with instructions on where to send what documents. 

If you wire the funds, call the title company directly to get the wire instructions, don't trust that your agent will send them.

Sometimes the licensed broker is not involved in the operation (this is dangerous).Make sure there are no hidden fees, that listing broker doesn't try to collect from buyer or buyer agent, that you get on the local MLS, that you can cancel free, that changes are free,that open house postings are free, that they work on weekends.

I see a lot of newer people also chasing cap rates all over the country.... seeing 10-15% in 'greener pasteurs'  Only for them to really make 2-5% due to higher vacancy or hidden repairs...or lose their shirts to a lawsuit due to mismanagement.  

Ensure there are no hidden fees!

I think he's being paranoid and took it off because he may think there is a hidden camera in there or something.

As far as I know disclosure is king, but you never know there may be a hidden rule out there.

No hidden surprises - No need for initial work or repairs..

Reviewed IRS 4562 instructions but it is not very clear.

Put it in your unit or keep it hidden somewhere in a common area or in a locked closet, find someway that you control the heat.