Having a RE attorney work with the seller's RE attorney is not an issue and as long as the RE attorney is competent and communicative all should go well.But I'll still give some advice from what I've learned the hard way: if there are any contingencies such as repairs (usually discovered and agreed on after the inspection) make certain all repairs/contingencies are completed prior to closing - and literally go and check to make certain these repairs were actually done. 

For heavily populated counties (which Orange County, CA definitely qualifies as), these are usually on the Web and free to look at. 

Usually not lol but I learned a ton and wouldn't trade it for anything cause now I know what I'm talking about and can carry on a conversation with a contractor who can respect my opinion.That's my 2 cents.

For those who are familiar with South and NE Minneapolis, that price doesn't exist, when a duplex is listed for 250k in one of those neigborhoods there are usually 15-20 people at a showing and the seller asks for highest bids to be made by a certain date.  

The nice thing about when they become available, the people moving out usually want to sell their appliances and furniture because they are going to a nursing home or to stay with family.Before you go overboard, make sure there is a demand for STRs in your market. 

Hey Craig,When investing in an out-of-state market, I usually rely on my agent in that area to send me information as it comes up.

They're usually not accurate. 

If a tenant ever procrastinates on signing a new lease (with a smaller increase,) reminding them of that clause usually gets a very quick signature on my new lease.Good luck.

I usually get loan from private lenders with 8% interest and it was quick and easy. 

usually you can find a scrap guy to remove it for free.