You will need to check on them and see if they meet the requirements you are looking for.

Next time I recommend not giving a grace period unless required by your states laws

However, long-term success requires a clear investment strategy.Real estate is a tangible asset that can generate passive income and appreciate in value over time.

Have you ever required a drug test

Once a restoration company sends a bid , would insurance be required to complete the restoration phase?

What documentation might be required? 

If you are subject to the MA "Millionaires" tax there is some (minor) planning that can be done, but nothing that requires significant knowledge to do it.  

Should we find an agent first, who can help us identify these properties and can get us these properties in competitive market or should we start looking into these properties with a general contractor who can help us figure out how much work/flipping cost will be required?

I know that most home loans require you to live in house for at least a year prior to renting out, so my question is on how to work around this and be able to rent out the property soon after purchasing?  

You mentioned "architect fees" and not all the others that are frequently required so I am not sure what your quote includes.