Once you choose a realtor, they'll list it on MLS and assist you with properly vetting and screening prospective tenants.

See my previous comment as I don’t think I tagged you properly

Are you in Cincy proper or suburbs?

Having a mortgage on your personal name and not properly handling the transaction might be breaking one of those rules. 

That is fine if you are flipping because that is the proper treatment there, but it is a major problem is you eventually also have rentals that you occasionally sell (you also cannot 1031 inventory, so dealer status is also problematic there). 

Drywall cracks, space between trim and floor(both possible foundation issue indicators), proper attic venting(check temp in attic)

The fact they are complaining online might be an indication the property manager dealt with them properly so be sure to ask the manager for their side of the story.I hope this basic guide helps.

I'm looking for any advice on how to balance making a competitive offer vs. avoiding mistakes caused by not doing enough due diligence. 

This way the inspector can test everything out properly .so youd have to have it under contract with a contingency figured in for home inspection to do this before youd actually own it .

there is nothing wrong with Blue Collar demographic.With your description above it is impossible to give proper feedback.How many people live in the town?