Are there resources I can look up to see if i can wait and enact new leases that include tenant paying utilties and what legal issues I may encounter there?

Does anybody know of any resources where I can research which submarkets major store chains are closing and opening stores at?

Is it best to find an attorney and have them drawn up or is there an alternative resource that is state specific? 

Ask around about who is the best tax sale resource in the group...or outside the group. 

This article by BP's Brandon Turner is a great place to start to get some ground-level understanding of how to approach a Seller Financed deal.The Definitive Guide to Using Seller Financing to Buy Real EstateIt sounds like you have a really great opportunity with this seller, and you are smart to make sure you handle these first deals with them professionally and knowledgeably.Start with this article and let us know if you have additional questions that apply to your specific opportunities on these properties!

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Sang, PM I'm from Chicago and live in PHX now but I virtually wholesale in Chi I believe I can provide you with some resources to help you get started

Loopnet is a great resource, and you can also search for terms in the public remarks of a listing like owner financing or owner may carry. 

At present, my interest is to start with wholesaling then move my resources to fixing and flipping until I can build up enough resources to buy and hold. 

No really a good resource other than a lot of looking at other people's rentals and their availability, you might also reach out to a management company that specializes in vacation rentals.