If marketing as a buyer simply pick up the phone and set an appointment to buy the house.

If Fair Housing decide to jack you up they will say you are choosing to police the infractions that will keep brown people out of your rentals and leave you to explain to the court why you have become a self-appointed immigration enforcement official.

Most often within 30 days of death but always immediately upon the Court appointing an executor.

They have gotten me out of tickets, written letters for me, reviewed docs, and they also answer general legal questions when I have them - instead of paying $150 for a half hour appointment with another attorney.

I made a call to Sense-got a phone appointment.... so next week it should all be clear.Thanks again.

Have 2 appointments next week with 2 different REI organizations/groups so will start networking there. 

I have an appointment with a great CPA next week.  

If the trust were subject to a court action, a court-appointed probate referee would provide the date of death inventory and appraisal, at least in many jurisdictions. 

I know I cannot use "my own labor" costs if I do work on my own rather than hire a painter, but can I somehow use my time lost at work/vacation time used for appointments related to selling/repairing, etc.?  

I don't think you will have a problem.2 as long as you are not representing others and you represent yourself only -- you do not need a brokers license.3 you need to have an agreement with the seller that says you have right of possession or right of entry by appointment to show the house to your assignee.4 you need to make full disclosures, let the seller know that it is your objective to earn a reasonable profit.