Good info here, but wanted to add if your building is on higher ground, research the process for a LOMA, letter of map amendment, that may change your status.  

I looked up what a cancelled status on the MLS means and one article states: "a cancelled listing is completely terminated on the agreed upon date and time between the seller and the listingagent/broker." 

I tried to rent it to my brother in law and have us as his house guests in the mean time while i find a SFH but the hoa says the owner can not occupy the home and be on the renters list.

Even though you may have a contract and thus the first right of refusal, I am sure you do not have the status of an equitable owner - - your EMD is a condition for the contract and that's all.

Till this very day i only did that one deal in real estate but for some reason my heart is telling me to go for gold.

Many people don't know that in addition to national fair housing law, states and municipalities may have additional protected classes (for example, in Austin TX we have local additions to fair housing that cover sexual orientation, status as a student, and others)There are resources from the national apartment association (and through many state and local associations) specifically geared to educating and supporting independent rental owners (usually regarded as having less than 100 units).  

What are some places or sites that you have all found to best help determine the status of the area?

Others may mention some of these items but here's a quick story of a "mid 20's tech talent moving into a midwest city (Indianapolis)".Unsure job status - 5+ years ago I moved to a new city for a new programming job (mid 20s).

fyi...my current focus right now is driving for dollars, preforclosure door knocking and craigslist, just scouring for leads and distressed properties. i have a growing list of vacants and a meeting with the TLO rep on monday, i need a good "cheaper" way to skip trace, one of these coals will be a diamond or a nugget of gold in an acre. 

If plans/drawings are required, it could take a month just to get the official scope of work complete.Delays should be communicated by the PM in any regard.We (I'm a property manager) typically have weekly communications for status.