If you cannot commit your own blood and sweat, you will lose your shirt.

Screening as always is the key.

You have to be in control and never deviate from your process of screening tenants.

The reason I used 12 properties is so that you have 2 extra because even with all the tenant screening and 2 years leases and every attempt something will under perform so you have a buffer with 2 properties. 

I think with proper tenant screening and digging in to see how motivated people are in staying long term might go further to helping you land the right tenant regardless of terms.  

I have placed an add already on Zillow and Craig's list and have many interested parties daily, and am screening tenants now, but am wondering if I should buy another house in the same market in here. 3) Should I always pay for a home inspection before buying these distressed properties while I am starting out?

Every vehicle used to park cash is at risk but in this day and age real estate is simply too high risk for my blood.

There is one way to find out if it's hers....Blood test. hehe

I've begun to educate myself on properly screening potential tenants, taxes, codes/laws, leases, insurance, and budgeting.

Absolutely love your Tenant Screening Interview Questions.