And I've looked at an old map of the house that shows a small structure in that spot that I'm guessing was a small detached garage. 

Discovered that I don't like doing a lot of the things a landlord does and have problems with being emotionally detached about the business.

Many liens get attached to the property and can't be detached without the lienholder's approval.

I'm currently going through a divorce and my ex is selling me his interest in our 1800 sq ft ranch with detached garage on 1/3 acre, for $8500.

Congrats, I've encountered many of the same obstacles in my REI journey.My process for finalizing the tenancy is as follows:- once properly vetted, I'll ask them to send a fee to cover the credit check (i'll have to check out Zillow's feature it sounds great too).

At the time, i was having trouble finding someone who could qualify us for a Reno loan since me and my husband had a accessory unit detached for the primary home.

Both should have other structures, if they are there (sheds, detached garage etc.)

BTW they are wrong in their interpretation however convincing a Postal employee that they are wrong is a job in itself.The key to any direct mail campaign is to mail enough that the little obstacles fade away and become trivial.Good luck with your house hunting.

Most rookie investors have a number of obstacles to overcome.

It requires you the vision to see great opportunities where others see as a huge obstacles.