Quote from @Charles Tunnell: I am not an attorney; however, this is CYA in any real estate sale.

The more you know, the easier it will be to spot a good deal and avoid overpaying.- Build a Strong Buyers List EarlyA solid buyers list is your safety net.

Or is this some other case? 

Next you use whatever skip tracing system you like.

After a little while of this you can slow down and just use the one contractor you have gained a good relationship with and know their numbers on rehabs.

There is a great group of members on here to connect with.

Great tools that get updated regularly.I am on the lending side of things and would be happy to hop on a call with you anytime to discuss financial strategies and help answer any questions you may have about nearly any loan product available to help you on your journey, even if they are not products my capital partners offer.We are all here to help you learn and grow.

What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

One month prior to this, their water bill was abnormally high.

While I don't do this professionally, I have a software team that works for me overseas for my real estate business needs.