3) the house is in a 'non-disclosure' state (my term for: not required to disclose RE sales);  so doing 'comps' online seems questionable 4) IF the house actually sells for anything near $125k - $150k??

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Example:If you use ANY on-line dispute systems, you effectively relinquish the right to request verification of a disputed item and to request to be notified if any items removed from your credit report are re-inserted.

If a proper contract is in place, the owner should have the opportunity to not renew the monthly lease?  

Honestly, you need more detailed advice then you'll be able to obtain online.  

Personally i'm looking for buy and hold opportunities but i work a full time job and know i couldn't do it on my own.  

Absolutely make use of all the online tools available throughout the processEvaluate resumes and reviews/recommendations from trusted resouces, peers and past clients (like you would on LinkedIn for example)Narrow down your search to the top candidates and schedule in-person interviewsChoose your top 3-4 final candidates and check referencesThen ask at least three to provide bids for your scope of work requiredEvaluate the bids and pick your top candidate...then there is one crucial step left...Make sure to take an in person look at the physical finished work your final chosen contractor has done recently.Like almost everything else in real estate, choosing a great contractor requires time and effort.  

Im excited for this opportunity, and I'm excited for this forum and its wealth of knowledge and resources.    

There is definitely opportunity up here in Baltimore but be careful of some of the "deals" that are being marketed - many of them are in neighborhoods that are not in demand.