I assume this is not a high efficiency heater that should be direct vented.

With all that said what I was alluding to above is a small gesture that has no bearing on their contractural financial commitments to us but may actual help to ensure those are actual honored moving forward.   

My best guess is this was purchased cash by someone who can renovate very efficiently and who has slimmer margin requirements.I advise my clients interested in BRRRRing in Atl to direct a portion of their capital to a direct to seller campaign.

Also how do I make sure that if I call a short sale listing agent to list the property for the short sale seller, how do I ensure they don't sell the property to another end buyer besides me? 

You should be a bit more in their business, micromanaging in a respectful way to ensure that you will step in if you feel something is fishy.

Unit in the attic, mini splits, or super efficient gas unit that runs whole house and charge higher rent.

She gladly obliged.My question(s) to the BP community is this: What obligation do we as landlords have to ensure our tenants are in a safe environment?

This is a contract that defines the terms of your agreement and ensures your loan documents are still in force and that you are not giving up any of your rights. 

I worked hard for this money, I want to ensure its spent correctly.

I want to be able to complete this process as efficiently as possible, so I would love some expert opinions on the best system to follow for this.P.S.