The property required a full gut rehab as it had been vacant for 15+ years.

I understand this is not a requirement, but I have never received a damaged unit from an inherited tenant or any legal issues.

Also start talking to lenders now to understand their requirements 

You'll want to read Maryland new requirements for landlords.https://dhcd.maryland.gov/TurningTheKey/Documents/HB693-Land...

It sounds like you've done a lot of the preparation work required to hit the ground running. 

Only entertain this if you feel you can perform.A lease option will require a down payment, more than likely, followed by a balloon payment upon a payoff due date.

We will always require at minimum 10% of a down payment for a purchase.

Lower Start-Up CostsTraditional real estate investing requires 20%-25% down, making it difficult for many to scale quickly.

Now, some states require an attorney to review contracts. 

I received a quote in Southern California, but it requires year-round accounting at over $6,000 per year.Would a general tax professional be sufficient, or would I risk missing out on significant savings?