You'll see the mechanics that way.

You can take your time on the minor items, but mechanical systems need to be up and running for safety purposes. 

You're going to beware, and hopefully bring your friend the mechanic with you to look at that jalopy.I've invested in some shady neighborhoods, but I would have never done so without seeing the properties.

As a HVAC Mechanical Contractor, I have tried several manufactured cages, what I found in Baltimore is they will steel your cage and your AC unit.

You can blame the government in power in 2001 for putting in place this ludicrous security mechanism that has done nothing to make us more secure.Btw, prior to 9/11, it was very uncommon for any airport security agent to pat down a traveler.

I'd give the roof and mechanicals a hard look.

:)Kinda like saying a mechanic is a race car driver, some race car drivers are probably mechanics.

6.Are there any mechanical liens on this property?

In order to obtain marketable title, they have to negotiate or pay off: municipal liens, water & scavenger liens, mechanic liens, property tax liens, HOA liens, building code violations, etc.

Watch out for the HOA / IRS liens that you mentioned, as well as Mechanics Liens and Personal liens if the home were used as collateral in a biz loan etc.