I've also been thinking about getting my RE agent license for the education of how things work as well as access to the MLS.

Box where they can send payments, so they don't have direct and easy access to my home address. 

Their insurance carrier may have a problem with the pool if its unfenced and accessible?

I am not sure if a concrete guy will do a retaining wall assuming you want the retaining wall blocks. 

At BP, not only can you network with other investors, you can also access tons of free information.

As I go along I will also add links to the tax records, MLS info, rentometer, zillow, etc for easy access to property info.I use 8% for vacancy, 7% for general repairs and 5% for CapEx.

It is simply a means to diversify your IRA, not a way that you can personally access the funds for your own purposes.Do some reading here on BP and you will identify a few providers of both service types that participate here regularly.  

I am basically a newbie, so I don't know if title companies have access to other records in addition to those at the courthouse, but they may have more info available to them.Are there any members out there who can help answer @Benjamin Cowles question?

Not only can you network with other investors from around the world, you can access all kinds of information including free online videos and educational courses.

You do not need it but it may be best to use people who are familiar with the house.Check bank account make sure all the money is there especially if you have a joint account or anyone else has access to your account.Do you have insurance in place?