On the other hand, is that property extremely hard to rent, therefore making getting it rented weigh a lot as well?

Hey John,I think you bring up some great questions and points.On 1 hand, you want to start investing and creating another stream of income, on the other being an agent won't get you the loan you need. 

I am excited to have the ball rolling on something that I’ve wanted to for a long time and having some firmer numbers in hand will allow me to come up with forecasts that include less “what ifs”

I’ve heard that we need to have a cashiers check ready....what is the usually amount we have to have in hand at the auction.

My view of holding any of their stock would be different if I were buying in as a non-agent, likely wouldn't be on my radar...but I'll have to balance that risk/speculative gain for myself over time as I'll at least have a hands-on feel for day to day operation, if not the big picture finances of the company. 

I can put them both on filtering through land records now, but one has college training in quickbooks so I think I’m going to hand her bookkeeping and payroll.

Great job getting your hands on property at such a young age.

I think it is a good idea to leave your business card with them or send them a hand written letter  (that makes you memorable).

Says he gets to buy at a good price, as most heirs are not into real estate, and usually wants to have their hands on the money, for most of them, free money.

But at a handful, get replacement cost.