Your best source of how it is done in that area would be the assessors office though, they should be able to guide you easily on how they do it.

These are all important questions that should guide any advice you get.That being said, my niche is self storage and it is a great business for what I desire out of life.  

They don't typically want newer people that they will need to guide along nor do they want someone with bad financials.

Make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing

Reach out to Corey Melkonian He is an investor as well and can guide you with your purchase.

I came across someone willing to guide me through the process of REI his way.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Wishing you the best!

Some of the free guides under the Education tab may be of help learning the ins and outs of renting your home.

hi keenen and welcome, as far as the 5 rentals I wouldn't concern yourself just yet, unless you have deep pockets and are planning on purchasing all 5 right away, a good mortgage broker and advise from here will guide you down the right path, by purchasing with companies, partnerships, etc. 

Make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing