The one aspect I absolutely loved was the business clipboard and the fact they allowed networking.

Absolutely needed. 

You want to do an Auction Flip (the absolute fastest way to to get a bundle of cash - provided you have the skill to pull it off - cash in hand within 7 weeks - as is- all cash and no contingencies)Some suggestions:Use a Skinny easy to understand contract offer with full profit disclosuresHave you Assignment Agreement in orderDo a "Bring to Date" title and lien report - Start your marketing immediately Always ask the sell if they have any other properties for saleAlways ask ...."

This is the absolute best way I've found for my properties. 

This is an absolutely wonderful looking renovation...

Absolutely, nothing wrong in telling the tenants that you are the owner.

Or is it an absolute necessity for the money to enter the escrow account before closing?

Actually, J recommends to find first your agent). but if I absolutely have no idea where I would start, from which area should I look for an agent???

I spent 6 months looking for my latest property and finally found a 1.1% rule.1% seems to be the absolute minimum though if you want to cash flow with any kind of decent return.

You're absolutely right about depreciation and most overlook the true potential of fully utilizing it.