Has to be the right fit of course and both partners need to have some skin in the game but win-win all the way.  

A legit assistance animal is not a pet, it is an assistive  like a wheelchair in the eyes of Fair housing, Each state does have the right to limited regulation in this area, in WI we can now require documentation form a WI licensed professional, where previously an online Quack could sign off, there are also situations where you can deny, if the animal could cause a problem or pose a health risk for other tenants. be careful on this one and know the law. seek advice from a licensed professional. 

Her ex mentioned seeing it was worth $125K online which would be a bit tough considering it needs a new kitchen, and even though I've been inside a couple times I don't even know if it's 1 or 2 baths (Zillow & Realtor say different things) Oh I'd love to have two contiguous properties! 

You can also check their reviews online at Google, Facebook, or Yelp.

Real estate investment is a quantity game. 

But if you decide to wait for the sale and be a participant in the tax auction, some counties have online tax sales, you can wipe not only your own mortgage but also the second and any liens that your borrower may have accumulated including but not limited to IRS liens and then move into REO by Tax Sale/Sherrif Deed. 

I was trying to consider some factors that may come into play - from what I understand you can put as little as ~3.5% down under an FHA loan - will it be more beneficial for me to put "more skin in the game" with the largest possible down payment I can make (say, closer to 10-15%)?

I believe you can also find the public records online.

I have somewhat of a game plan and outline of what I'm wanting to do.

If they can’t or won’t pay online, maybe they could go to amascot or go and deposit into your account