But probably the best way to know is to subscribe to the local paper and then keep up with the news.

We have a decent chunk of change to use toward purchasing property every summer due to low cost of living and good pay as international educators.My summer home: SeattleMy current investments: performing SFR in Idaho, piece of land in Costa Rica, performing treehouse rental in Costa Rica, some paper assets.My next goal: find a market where I can purchase cash flowing properties such that I can replace my current income in the next 10 years, with some excess for continual portfolio growth and for capital to put toward my philanthropy projects.Education: listened to nearly every BP podcast, follow the forums and occasionally post, have a couple investments under my belt, read 10 books (give or take) on real estate investing, lead a REI group in Ethiopia.

A very wise and experienced real estate investor once told me that a verbal agreement is worth the paper it is written on.

Use drops, masking paper, and adjust the pressure settings on your pump.  

I would call several and ask about their charges (watch out for JUNK fees that they stick on the HUD.If you know what to expect before settlement you will be better ready to avoid problems at the settlement table.Ask them to give you a list of all charges that will be on the settlement HUD - if it is an assignment - make sure your paper work is right and that they understand who gets what - make sure your assignment is clearly marked on the HUD.

If you are looking to sign papers and walk out of here tonight with the clothes on your back and things you can fit in a suitcase, I will represent myself and make you an insulting offer that will make me some money but possibly get you out of whatever situation you are in.

I would paper everything because memories are foggy.

This includes only using paper applications, which is difficult to organize and also a security issue as you will usually have tenants social security numbers on the applications.

See if the lender sells off the paper or holds it internally.

They just strictly went off of your current rent similar to what Shane pointed out. (75% of rent can count toward income) They will probably just want a signed lease with a paper trail of the deposit from your future tenant.