I found this deal on the MLS and negotiated 6k in seller concessions to cover some small structural concerns How did you finance this deal?

It is other investors (professionals -often sharks), who would be my concern in a deal like this.

I'm concerned that I'll pay a bit more in closing fee.

Their only concern was I was also changing them from annual leases to MTM and they were afraid I planned to increase the rent again in a few months or evict them.

my biggest concern with the relationship going forward is i want both of us to be legally protected from hurting each other. so how can i do that?

Something else that concerns me is that I am self-employed, and new to it as well, so I fear I most likely will not be able to qualify for traditional financing to buy properties.

Not a big concern necessarily, it could indicate some upside in rents.

My primary concerns are: it’s a rather small town and I think somewhat limited applicant pool to fill the units. the current owner pays water and electricity - I’ve asked for recent costs which the realtor is in the process of getting but it did not sound like a substantial amount.

I am looking at one particular property that I believe fits the BRRRR strategy, but one of my biggest concerns with that would be managing contractors from out of town. 

I understand the concern that the Triangle has gotten a little out of hand.