Tenant in one has been in place for 14 yrs (single mom and two school age sons), another for 8 yrs (single senior woman), another for 3 yrs (brother & sister) and we are gearing up to rent our newest acquisition, the smallest house, to another tenant (single mom and adult son).

I usually included the basic details like address, #beds, #baths, sqft, age and occupancy, ARV, estimated repairs and my wholesale price.

In this day and age, it is easy to forge reports with a few clicks of the mouse. 

Mitch -Depending on the age and quality of the brick, the wire wheel might just tear it up.

Age does not define work ethic. 

Looking for signs of leaks is my #1 reason for annual interim inspections...I always check under sinks (taking pics) and also take pics of ceilings in general, especially bathroom and kitchens, and floors in all the suspect areas (toilet, tub, laundry, sink base, under-counter water heater, etc.) and depending on the apparent age of the unit, I try to get a look at accessible window sills if this is an issue I have any concern about.

I will reply but I doubt I will be of much help.Every state has different statutes regarding how certificates are created, acquired, effective periods, minimum certificate age required to apply for a tax deed, certificate expiration age, etc.I recommend that you post what states you are interested in purchasing certificates and hopefully individuals who have acquired certificates in these states will respond.Your strategies will dictate your operating costs. 

These are college age students, the parents often like having a house mother for their kids since they are in a foreign country.

The other benefit is the college age or just out of college kids I occasionally rent to. 

Age is nothing but a number.