I searched the myfloridalicense.com web site  to find GCs and to check the complaints database.

@Brie Schmidt, I couldn’t find too much on the web either.

In the long run, your action on this situation will either reinforce that trust, or sour the relationship and tarnish your reputation as a good landlord.

And, then, one day, I discovered that they weren't just objects of beauty (well, in some cases, anyway), they could also be used to make a lot of money . . .My dream is to build an even bigger real estate business, produce great returns for my investors, and get a great reputation for producing results in this business so people keep coming back.  

Looking for some advice on how to start out:Goals:Cash flow focused (SFR or Small Multi)'Retire' in 10-15 years (expenses covered, $7K a month)Issues: Full time job8 month old daughterBarely any free timeVery little initial investment capital (putting together $20K)I live in Monterey, CA area (high entry cost)No REI experiencePositives:Stellar credit (~815)Saving $1500 a month to invest withHigh paying job for 8+ yearsI've been doing a ton of research/learning, and my initial idea was to finance a $75K to $100K turnkey from a highly reputable company in the midwest cashflowing $100 a month. 

My web searches for investing information keep leading me here, so it must be the place to be.

I'm a good guy who knows that reputation is "huge" in this game and I take business very seriously.

But, as @Vincent Aiello said, transparency will help your reputation a lot as a landlord.If I remember correctly, lead paint is only harmful if you ingest it.

Many section 8 offices have a a list or a web site with available rentals, get on that list.The books Section 8 Bible Vol 1 & 2 have a bunch of tips from two landlords who owned hundred of section 8 rentals. 

Without a title commitment from a reputable title company (one YOU choose, not one that the Seller chooses), I wouldn't even consider this.My first step would be to call the Treasurer's office in El Paso county and inquire who, in fact, has title to the property and what the status of the tax lien is.