As a new investor, if you find yourself in this situation, it is recommended hiring a representative to negotiate the lien if it is federal, it could actually save you money.

I asked if they see any black growth on the spot where the leak happened, or any odor in the room, but they said both those things are not present.They are saying they are concerned and not very happy right now, and are hiring a mold inspector on their own to see if there is mold growth that happened due to the roof leak.

Hello, I'm looking to hire a GC to complete a cosmetic rehab in a 600sqft condo.  

You might want to consider hiring an experienced MF mentor to assist in properly evaluating the transaction.    

Do you plan on managing it yourself or hiring out management?

It's a budget rental that I cannot put anymore hired-help monies towards.  

In my state an attorney usually does the closing, however they hire title companies to research title. 

@JaNae Anderson  Vallejo is a very affordable place to invest along with other areas along 80 going towards sac... if your going to hire contractors do it there so you can watch them.. your not going to get any deals that are that much better or cheaper than Vallejo...

@James Watts: Are you looking at primarily hiring a property management company to handle the day to day issues?

They have effectively told you, by hiring the listing agent, that they do not want to be directly involved in negotiations and it won't go over well if you try to contact the seller.