I'm limited to how long I can be at the Office of Records before he fusses, negotiating with a Seller, etc. etc. etc.    

I am an investor friendly escrow officer looking to help and close deals!

Have a broker or Loan Officer that knows what they're doing figure out your DTI first. 

You may have to call or visit the office more than once to get it. 

Now I know when I look at a new area I google whether the city or township has a Rental Cert office and then I call them and chat them up to see if they have some arcane rules before I buy.

My office is in Glen Allen as well if you ever want to catch up for coffee and talk shop.Best of luck!

Hey @Paul DeckardTry your County Clerks Office.  

This market is expensive, very competitive (sharks swim here) and completely subject to political fluctuations which could crush a fledgling noob like me.

Let me know if I can help in any way.Chris, my office is in Annandale.  

Those are all valid points, and polite disagreement is generally productive disagreement!