I feel my realtor and or the sellers realtor should have verified this prior to the sale.

It would be great to here about how others have gone about selecting a state to invest in and figuring out what neighborhood/area they wanted to look into without having prior knowledge of the area. 

Through a policy of income focused re-investment we achieved rapid growth in the lower seattle market.

Give them written notice 30-60 days prior to lease expiration.

The prior tenant had contacted the HD without even notifying the property management company until we began getting notices.

If prospective renters are aware of your rental criteria prior to submitting an application, they are likely to eliminate themselves if they don't have what it takes to be successful and will not apply in the first place.

(Im on my trade associations public policy committee, and this is an issue we have a big voice in)Also, Im just quoting these regs quick and off the top of my head, dont take them as the exact or only regs concerning this.In Montgomery County...it is hard to find a property that has the driveway space to make them legal.

Thankfully, the house had been improved over the two years prior to illness, so there was a newer roof, A/C and PVC windows.  

If you're looking to invest passively, I would also take some money and educate yourself prior to investing with anyone/company.

These disclosures vary based on property type, but often include things like known flaws with the property, prior improvements or repairs, and potential environmental hazards.