Hi Davin,You will want to word it as a deposit instead of 1st or last month's rent, because a tenant could interpret that as they don't need to pay you last month's rent.Each state allows different deposits upfront, check in the area of your rental. 

This means homes are still holding strong value, and buyers are willing to invest in the right property.Although cash sales dipped slightly, with 41.0% of transactions paid in cash (a 4.2% drop), more buyers are opting for financing.

So that's very worrisome, although I will say that was a 3yo comment.

You technically need to be registered in the state where you will be utilizing the legal system.

When it comes to paying listing agent/broker is there anything in writing stating the tenant will pay them?

First of all - most people (including real estate investors) are lazy and will always gravitate towards promises of quick returns / passive income promises.But also - what you are describing is something that AirDNA does extremely well and automated - it can be a little pricy, but way way more effective and accurate to do this with that tool - highly recommended

Plenty of people here are willing to help and guide you.I recommend you attend REI Central and the CHS Circle in October.

I spent too much on the remodel so I will be leaving some money in the deal but am holding long term and the cash flow will be great once we move out of one of the units.

I imagine that will be pricey to fix.My understanding is the seller isn't required to fix anything. 

Then I would say that the main challenge for you will be finding trustworthy, experienced operators who are going to give you repeat business and who have a track record of successful project executions.