Once you get further down the road and have multiple properties, then you can spread that risk out so that if you do encounter a horror story, at least you will also have multiple good things going at the same time to spread out that bad experience.I think the best thing you can do from here is to narrow down what geographic area you are most comfortable with and then start developing a team that you trust can do all of the heavy lifting on your behalf.

Has anyone ever encountered this? 

A scam is a dishonest scheme; a fraud. 

Just as some hard money lenders can be a scam, there are several "Guru" programs that can be scams too and not provide what they promise at the beginning.  

I would google search the law firm and add the word 'review,' 'scam,' 'rip off,' 'lawsuit,' etc.

Wholeseller closing attorney is asking for me to wire funds to bank for purchase before closing. Is this normal practice or am I being had.

The challenges you might encounter on the cash our refinance vary by financing type, which in turn is tied to what the property officially is.

Described as pebble like, brown and grey, and I've read it contains asbestos.Anyone encountered this type of insulation before?

I just don't want to get scammed and be lied to.

This will eliminate most personal, usually emotionally charged, tenant encounters.