An IRS lien, code violations (weed abatement, grass cutting, boarding windows-doors, and demolition costs), HOA fees, water- sewer bills all go along with the property providing the property has any of these. 

My company provides foreclosure funding.. its a very select group I  do this with and I dont advertise it lest my phone gets blown up..

How did you add value to the deal?

Coming from the buy and hold side of investing, I'm very focused on cash flow, cash on cash, and then looking at the other ways that I value a deal (appreciation, principal paydown, etc.).  

While some guests might not treat it the same way, providing amenities like this is a chance we take with Airbnbs.

Local is inflated prices, high property taxes and sky high insurance.

If your college major will result in a high paying W2 job, that puts you in a much better position in a few years. 

Land contracts often allow for a higher price, typically 5% - 10% above market value, due to the flexibility they offer buyers.What's the average interest rates charged on these relative to regular mortgage rates?

Well same question here, what value do you provide? 

You don't have any values for maintenance or capital expenses.