Does your local jurisdiction require you to return those fees if they were not screened? 

It’s crucial to have local market knowledge or work with someone who does.

I am a local realtor in the Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk area and would love to help out if you need any assistance.

He is our local expert realtor and real estate investor! 

A few years later, I hired a local Wyoming attorney to create a living trust.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.

When I ask others at my local meet ups they just reply with "I've been doing it for a while" or "lots of practice."

I will be doing my own research on local laws & regulations, but want to do this 100% by the books.

Since you're still living in the property, you might be able to house hack and keep the lower owner-occupied tax rate—worth confirming with a local tax advisor.