I have had recent success by looking up addresses using the city's tools and contacting the owner.

I won't address all the elements here, but you get the idea. 

New house is closer to my work: not possible as my current address is very close already2.

You want to get this process started right away because many times there will be title issues that will need to be cleared up that could take time.

I would recommend finding an attorney over Anderson or Prime (have heard mixed reviews about them) if you decide you want to get an LLC.The reason for Wyoming is that you get a registered agent and a virtual business address for anonymity and no one can track you down (e.g. tenant trying to sue you, if you're at fault in a car accident and the other party is trying to sue you).

That would have taken the issue to a whole new level.

Well worth the cost.Plus he can defend us in there ever is an issue.

Working with tenants when they run into issues, treating them with respect, these actions are your first line of protection.

The condensed issue centers around decoupling of agent commissions, or no longer allowing seller's to pay the buyer's broker. 

@Randall E Collins sorry to hear about your health issues, but you need to go directly to the sellers and not through anyone else.