Get an inspection and a list of things which need to be done and request multiple bids from multiple licensed contractors.Next, apply for grants to help aid you with this endevour. 

I've house hacked and done the rent by the room strategy multiple times in Reno, NV and it's changed my life. 

With multiple units, you can collect rent from several tenants and this can significantly offset your mortgage and expenses.

It sounds like you have a solid foundation and will be prepared for any situations that arise. 

I want to avoid a situation where a lender is telling me I’m prequalified and then there is a hiccup once we get under contract.

If you overpaid in 2020-2023, based upon bubble multiples, the picture isn't as rosy.You have a choice to make:  Cut your losses or grind it out.

If you look at it just like a number situation- an investment, you will probably soon find that you have to run it like a business.

The Epic Pro Academy talks about the followingContract AssignmentsWholesalingFix and FlipBuy and HoldLease OptionsOwner FinancingSubject-toPresenting multiple offers to sellers called a 3 option letter of intentLead Generation (in my opinion a little old school but works)Advertising (My personal stance is don't create a huge buyers list but build close relationships with 3-5 and go shopping for them (buyer first).)AutomationIf even one person was able to have success following the course then it works.

After that I made a conscious effort to and connect and meet with as many people in the RE business as I possible and I still find myself in new challenging situations as LTR landlord.

If the software is not simplifying your life or making you more accurate, you shouldn't use it.Software does have extremely helpful features like online payments, marketing syndication (click a button, and your property is advertised on multiple sites), electronic document review/signing, maintenance tracking, and owner reports.