However, as a suspicious dude who has watched a LOT of smart people get hosed on deals, I'm super picky about property management.  

If I am suspicious when I call back I give them my Mark Twain name :-)

Hi all,As i started to learn about RE in the same time i was looking for any opportunity to own my first RE investment.I was searching on the websites in Wilmington DE area and noticed some opportunities for flip or rental but i am not sure for the market in there.Some prices of some homes are really cheap which makes me a bit suspicious why they didnt sell...I would like to have some information regarding Wilmington area on where i can look for better opportunities for rental or Flipping RE investments.Finding BP website i think was some kind of sign that i need to start RE investment :).Thank you all,Elton LIKA   

It is beyond me why they are not trying to short sale, it actually makes me suspicious.  

Make it clear that they need to know their lease, what they agreed to abide by, but also focus on a good relationship with them where they feel comfortable contacting you.Otherwise make an appointment for a maintenance inspection, and make sure the keys you have fit all doors and look for anything else suspicious in addition to any current or upcoming maintenance needs.

I just got an "LOI" from them last night, but it seemed very suspicious.

I don't know how the lead paint thing got started in this post but a tenant that wont let you in with a 48 hr notice sounds suspicious to me.

This arrangement would create an unlawful conflict of your fiduciary duties.I'd be very suspicious about what these agents you are hearing about are up to.And the logic is incorrect as well.  

If you hired a professional and they didn't find any evidence of bed bugs then I'm going to be suspicious. 

If you turn in a file like this you'd get an instant decline and counter as investment property.If you "were," to intend to live there as a primary it might be possible but being an hour and half away from your job makes it look very suspicious and may still have a small chance of being countered as an investment property as well.