I understand that issues arise, and I'd calculate that into my own figures, but I've heard horror stories of people being sold lies.

A team you can trust to take care of the problems when they arise, and they will arise.  

No matter how much due diligence you do prior to purchase unknown costs can arise. 

With this information, I can get a sense of what may arise in the next 5, 10, 15 years. 

There are a few others on here who advocate doing things that are known to be illegal and unethical, they seem to post bad information as if it's a game to get a rise out of those who deal with integrity and lawfully.Those who advocate just doing things without regard to laws or local customs are pretty much counterproductive to the intent of this site.

You do not have to pull out your hair, stomp your feet, or scream, simply discuss things with your contractor and if they feel they can guarantee their work they should have no problem assuring you that if you have quality problems with their work that they are willing to stand behind it and will take care of anything for you should the need arise.

My Strategy: I want t focus mainly on rentals, but also would like to take advantage of other strategies like wholesaling and flipping if the opportunities arise. 

One other note - a quit claim deed is not any "easier" than a warranty deed, but it might void your title insurance policy should a title problem arise.

Surely something, as consciousness can't just arise out of nothing, can it?

The problem arises in that I am 7 hours away from my units.