This is my first auction purchase, so any insights or advice from those familiar with this process would be appreciated.

Id like to build a bigger portfolio but this would be my first non LP deal where I'm doing all the work myself so I thought id start between beginner mode and intermediate. 

Many times the applicant will tell or show you what they are supposed to receive, BUT many times they haven't actually been receiving that money like they are supposed to.

I am curious about any potential barriers to look out for- timing, access/cost supplies, labor force?

This is all too common and you aren't the first person to be told this...

From a cleaning perspective, I can understand why any landlord would want to use a contracted cleaning process, no matter how clean the unit was at the time of move-out. 

Partner effectively, focus on securing your first deal, and build savings and credit.

As for taking a long time to get paid, that is Innago's policy.

@Mesturah ShittuIt's fantastic to hear about your success in real estate so far, growing your portfolio to 10 units and $5.5M in such a short time.

It could be he is lodged and charged after which you can take possession based on abandonment/non-payment.It's always a good idea to use an attorney but if you spend the time, read the laws it's a pretty straight forward process to evict on the grounds you stated.