I have obtained my first tax delinquent list from the county.

Recently, the appraisal district sent us notice letters on our four-plex and two duplexes stating that, "Apartment complexes now fall under income producing properties, so we must obtain some information from the property owner in order to be able to apply the income approach to value."  

They might give you a contract with stipulations that certain zoning, easement, approvals, be obtained before they purchase it.  

I live in a semi rural area so that's the reason for going after land more specifically. 1.) if I do end up getting a deed it seems like a much simpler process too obtain full ownership and 2.)

It just makes the information tougher to obtain.

Many new investors never obtain these docs and invariably run into problems at the closing table with the title company. 

Foreclosure vs short sale.....pros and cons, ease of purchase, time to close, negotiating price, obtaining financing, etc etc..looking for as much feedback as possible.

Will the investor still be able to obtain a certificate of occupancy since they purchased the owner user building "As Is" with no further build out required?

I would like to obtain an FHA loan to purchase a duplex to house hack, but I'm unsure whether or not I should go through an intermediary between the lender and myself.

And recently obtained my Real Estate license.