Both townhomes are walking distance to downtown scottsdale.

If you know what area, or even a couple of areas you are looking to invest in I would suggest making a new post to ask those 3 questions about each market to get feedback from investors in those markets.Also, when you get to it, have a property manager walk the property before you make an offer.

If #3 fails, you'll either have to walk away, or purchase a unit with negative cash flow... sounds like a bad deal to me. 

Anyway, due diligence is a checklist process...and the first 3-days in contract are fast paced to keep you protected....the initial goal is to preserve your capital...that means a contract clause requesting an agent walk through with copies of all leases, rent roll, and income and expense reports within 48-hours is standard.

If the deal doesn't fit that metric, walk away from that deal. 

Anyhow, I walked away, got in my car, and went to the store.  

I have read other posts but they all seem to be 1-3+ years old and I know things change, is this something that is normal or should I walk away.

Steer the conversation and make it there idea to invite you to the property for a walk through.

And worst case scenario I sell the home and walk away with a little pocket change, this should be easier as the home is getting an inside out renovation

Can someone walk me through step by step how this process might work?