Thinking you can identify scammers by speaking to them or reading reviews is naïve.

A LOT of what I have learned and the connections I've made along the way have come either directly or in-directly from this community. 

Hey Gene,Thanks for the valuable insight.

This will clarify and reinforce what you are reading.

What's peoples thoughts opinions on this real estate market over here?

As you embark on this adventure, it's important to equip yourself with knowledge and a solid strategy.

This is something I try to live by and teach my kids if I can - "A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly.

You’ve gained valuable experience from your first duplex and are now approaching real estate with a strategic mindset

I'm use to a move-in inspection documenting the condition of everything at time of move-in. 

@Stanley Nguyen there really isn't a way around this.