and you already have copies of the leases, I would:-make sure you get adjustment at closing for full partial month's rent from seller (it doesn't matter if tenants are on time, seller owes buyer rent due buyer for stub of month, unless you close on the last day of the month)-give all tenants a 'hello, I'm the new landlord' letter - note where to send payment and what the payment terms are ("according to your lease, your rent of $xxx is due each month on the first; if payment is not received by the xth a late fee of y will apply")-pursue nonpayment eviction against anyone who doesn't pay on time.  

Confirm how this matter is addressed/worded in your lease, but I doubt there is anything that says they must leave during an inspection or that it would be enforceable even if there was. 

Specifically, Knoxville - and most of East TN for that matter - has a growing but strongly middle income economy.

Your attorney would have to close the case on the matter while the Association attempts rent intercept. 

As a matter of fact, most PM's gouge a lot! 

No matter what you decide, definitely get out there to some meetings and network with local investors.

I order a Municipal Lien Certificate from the city (confirms if taxes are outstanding as well as water, betterments etc) I used to do the title exam myself but the national title company want a third party because they would also have malpractice if anything is missed) I review what they send me and make a judgment as to the marketability of the title or if there are any other issue so the mortgage company is in first place (so I would order pay offs of any current mortgages or judgment liens, etc)Most of the registry of deeds info is available on line so I can double check or do a preliminary search (or anyone can search for that matter) As for getting copies on line, you usually need to be registered and have an account because they do charge by the copy.

If you can take a loan against unrelated property to get your down payment then it should not matter to the seller. 

I'm merely stressing the need to have an attorney look at legal matters, as failure to listen to a licensed, local attorney could cost someone hundreds of thousands of legal damages and fees.

My Parents didn't start with one...I don't think I understand what you're saying.To your other point, it's not a matter of trust.