I took the exam in 1996 and passed with ease.

More that that, when I truly examined myself, I discovered that I really didn't want to be a landlord.

Make sure you have an inspection clause written into your contract and have a certified inspector examine it.  

In my state, CA, there are different level of powers, best evident by examining a document alternatively called probate Letters Testamentary (if subject the decedent's will) or Letters of Administration (intestate - no will).

(And owners are the ones with the vested interest to make sure of those 2 things.)As a renter: I'd never agree to pay the owner a non-refundable fee like this that was outside the owner's direct control AND have to wait 30days, unless I couldn't find housing ANYwhere else.You as an owner going forward should examine whether you like the criteria used by HOAs to determine who is/isn't acceptable as a renter....they could put You as an owner within this HOA at risk for their possibly discriminatory decision.

I'm going to be taking the state licensing exam in the next few weeks and am just looking for input.

My background is in examining financial institutions – I’ve worked for FDIC and NCUA so I’m familiar with community banks and credit unions.

*FFIEC.govFederal Financial Institutions Examination CouncilMy mistake

Take a Snapshot of Where You AreFirst, examine 36 months of “actual” collections for each property—ideally this number should be trending northward.

If you were to examine the Business' tax returns or the Schedule E for 2 years, you will see if the tenants are having problems or verify that everything is great and that you can make a sound and solid offer.You can also discover if there were any deferred maintenance, legal problems, etc.Also, not every Broker/Agent will be on top of their game.I usually throw out the numbers given to me and just do my own, adjusting for vacancies, late payments/evictions, etc.Also, the Agent's fiduciary responsibility is to get the best deal for the Seller, not the buyer.