It may be worth investigating why that is and use those whys accordingly when searching for the alternatives.Good luck! 

Investigate the deal, and see where it brings you.

I trusted the seller, and never bothered to investigate it thoroughly or due my own due diligence on the matter.

In the UK, I could not research the deed, nor record the deed myself, and had to use a solicitor (a good plan, anyway)So my answer to you: Investigate HOW you are going to buy.  

Arthur,Western Reporting ~ $38/perBackground Investigations (BII) ~ $30/perPlease note, you will need to pass an onsite audit prior to enrolling in their services. 

So, I have posted enough here that anyone is likely to come across my posts and they can go to my profile and look up what I have said on many topics, that is if they are motivated to investigate things on their own.Good luck!

Attorneys, title companies, anyone else - is there any cost associated with these people in regard to properties that I investigate but don't buy?

After you know all those laws, I would talk with the seller about notifying the tenant that you will only (this can be done through the contract) be purchasing the property if they evict the tenant in the time period of escrow, and the unit needs to be investigated while in escrow, or you want a reduction in price due to the lack of knowledge of that unit.I have inherited a tenant and California is way different and more strict with tenant/landlord laws than most states, but luckily the tenant left without too much muscle (figuratively speaking).

I doubt you'll have someone knocking on your door to confirm you live there but I'm not sure I want the federal government investigating me for fraud. 

I am interested in starting to acquire rental properties in my immediate area (MA 02375) to hold and generate income.I'm close to making my first deal and out looking at all types of residential single & multi-family.I'm looking at cash and leveraged deals for myself, but would also be open to private lending for those that have a strong track record of success.I have written down my plan, assembled a team and am actively looking at properties every weekend with my broker.I am also investigating checkbook IRA LLC's and solo 401K entities to expand my portfolio.I'm just finishing up Brandon Turner's audio book on Rental Property Investing and look forward to interacting with this community!