(Usually complaining about the hedge funds who are unreachable to correct issues).

Check Facebook, Next door, etc to learn about some local issues.

Without credit information, how can I handle potential issues like unpaid utility bills?

It sounds like you need to find a lawyer that has better experience dealing in the specific issues you have going on. 

Being that those first properties are rentals on your tax returns now you shouldn’t have an issue with qualifying.

The property may not have the needed equity, personal credit issues, etc, etc...Do your best to avoid balloon payments at all costs - really talk to your seller about this in detail as to why they may want one. 

Otherwise framing around beams etc is not an issue

I find it to be very useful to jump on potential issues quickly. 

You just ventured yourself into a fair housing issue by stating a preference for someone based on their protected class status.

The other issue is my exit.