I worked for many years in finance and specialized in retirement accounts so I know a thing or two.

You need to find an agent that specializes in investors for future purchases.

For further context, below are the type of questions that I am still looking for answers on and guidance that would be appreciated:1) For out-of-state investors, after finding a seller financing deal, do I need to or should I work with a local real estate agent or lawyer that specializes in these type of deals?

There are also a few people on here that specialize in this too.

Also, real estate attorneys have specializations, it might help if you elaborated:  transactional for closings, landlord/tenant, zoning, commercial transactions, etc.  

Before we could get our hands on meeting minutes get got info right away that the sellers had said put the special assessment in the terms, and that turned us off from it.

An utility easement is for the electric, gas and possibly cable water/sewer to maintain there equipment.  

Someone specializing in SFH / residential that would ideally have both rental and flip experience - or at least great sales/listing experience.

Hire a broker that specializes in investing in apartments.

Tenants will be paying gas/electric/cable/internet.