As it turns out (which they never told me), that tenant backed out and they apparently then applied for Section 8 and now have a renter in place paying $980 ($127 of which she pays and $857 of which the housing authority pays) and supposedly there is some government program that is making up the difference (I have yet to see any documentation on this).

It may help your cause if you have an idea of what they might want, like;2 years of tax formsDefinitely, personal balance sheet, or called an individual financial statement, where you fill out what your assets and debts are, loan balances on properties, market value of properties, car loans or free & clear, bank balances, life insurance, etcProfit & loss statements, perhaps a portfolio of your properties (before/after)Last 2 pay stubs, if you have a jobJust a conversation about what you've done, what you want to do, etc.  

At 3920 Appling, the giant tree in the front yard would be kept by a lot of individuals that our in my niche, but it is already pushing up the front deck and while it poses no current threat (and may never) to the house, it should be addressed b/c it could be a potential issue.  

Speaking to individuals who have experienced the type of investing your looking to do is key. 

I then authorize and send the required money to make the repairs. 

I would never EMD funds into any of my business or personal accounts - I know for licensed individuals in Nevada that it is expressly illegal and I'm guessing that it poses a problem for non-licensed individuals as well (commingling funds).

Accountant—CPA who is aware of the ins and outs of real estate and preferably owns rental properties.Insurance agent—someone who is local and can help get the best possible insurance for each individual transaction.Contractor-- someone who gets things done on time and under budget.

I suggest you have a form that the applicant completes that authorizes you to make contact with employers.

I understand with a seller's market deals will be hard to come by and margins may be smaller but I am sure if I network with like minded individuals it is possible.  

Have your lawyer send them a letter stating you will file a complaint against them with the contractor's authority be it a state contractors board or the city itself but there is a formal and legal process to file complaints against contractors and you are allowed to sue them for damages.