If a big down payment isn't in the cards, @Erin Spradlin is a house hacking guru - that's an approach that many of us obtained our first rental through.

Dexter, do you plan on using your own capital, or obtaining financing? 

My attorney will be contacting the bank's attorney to obtain proof that the trust was also included in the foreclosure.At this point what should I do? 

That said, some versions of the scheme involve buying a property, renting back to them and not paying the mortgage, or obtaining title and collecting rents without bringing the loan current.

If anyone has any tips or suggestions on if I should even try to obtain a permit and if its worth it?

If I were in your situation, I'd seriously research whether you want to obtain your own license as if your goal is buying 2 properties a year or flipping, you may find a broker that charges reasonable fees, then save yourselves a lot of money being able to represent yourself in transactions, having access to MLS, and being able to view homes without assistance required.

Meeting successful investors face to face will allow you to build a rapport that is NOT obtainable through forums.Get out there and really network. 

I also work a very busy f/t job, so I wouldn't be able to escape to deal with all the issues that come up with construction.   

@Bjorn Ahlblad, @Scott Jensen, @Max T., @Jaysen Medhurst

In DC a 3-4 month flip is all cosmetic or maybe a very small remodel where a permit may be obtained with a walk-through.