As it stands my knowledge is pretty basic, just what I've learned browsing the forums and gleaming through materials online, but I'm a quick study and want to really make an effort My specific areas of interest are wholesaling, buy and hold for rent purposes, and flipping once I become knowledgeable enough about the Philadelphia market. 

The properties will be delivered vacant in case it matters.Another question - aside from rent control, what are the current legal requirements (licensing, registration, approvals, other requirements) for the above three scenarios?  

I have been browsing duplexes and triplexes online, to see what the market looks like now.

From what I can read in the tax code it seems possible with the homestead exemption here:This annual exemption is available for “residential property that is occupied by its owner or owners as his or their principal dwelling place, or that is a leasehold interest on which a single family residence is situated, which is occupied as a residence by a person who has an ownership interest therein, legal or equitable or as a lessee, and on which the person is liable for the payment of property taxes

I won't give you specifics because that might be considered legal advice, but it is not always on the owner (unless it is a MFRs.)

Are you paying him $5000 to be at the auction, or to simply bid on the house online, and then move through closing?

In other words, I am looking for help finding the people/resources/legal, etc., online and/or in person.The information I need to know is (And maybe not in this order):1) How do I find Residential Mortgage Loan Originators in Montana, who know how to write-up a loan for this type of transaction, to be compliant with SAFE Act, etc?

More bedrooms mean more revenue provided you can do it legally.

Not only because I had the connections and market knowledge, but also because it's a much cheaper market.So I went ahead and connected with a local investor through online search (unfortunately there are not many Portuguese in BiggerPockets).

Michael, Auction.com is selling this on the county court house steps, not online.