I have 2 recommendations: 1) make sure you understand cap expenses prior to purchase. 

If the mechanic's lien shows up, it has to be cleared prior to closing.  

@David Benton  our market in PDX were listing basically are money in the bank.. commission have dropped.. rare is a full 6% on almost any home.and in Charelston I am at 4.5 to 5% all the homes I am building here sell prior to completion and it has not been an issue.. no doubt some grumbling because of old standards of pay. 

@Ori Skloot  It sounds like you are working with a pre-tax strategy and if you pay for the property prior to tax sale you make sure you get a quit claim deed to the property and then pay the taxes before the sale takes place. 

I've taken the time to scope out the bigger pockets forums and other materials in order to become as well versed as possible prior to my first purchase.For the experienced investors out there, would you mind helping me come up with a list of things that I should have made available to myself before my first purchase.

I've taken the time to scope out the bigger pockets forums and other materials in order to become as well versed as possible prior to my first purchase.For the experienced investors out there, would you mind helping me come up with a list of things that I should have made available to myself before my first purchase.

Your right, she's wrong, send a email stating your check # was delivered on the first, that your prior contact with the manager.

And, learn to estimate projects and put a budget together prior to purchase, so you can have your financing squared away.good luck!

The prior owner lived in one side and had a tenant on the other.

We have previously flipped homes and owned a few rentals prior to the housing crash.