The following year I started buying small multifamilies, then a 14 unit, then a pool of multifamilies, a commercial property, an office building, then a 50,000 sq ft office building and now I'm developing a condo/townhouse subdivision, I'm considering a mixed use development project, and reviewing several offering memorandums on multifamilies and commercial properties. 

I do all the permit work myself and adjust immediately to the items that will go into review if at all possible.

A quick review of a reputable notes for sale site shows 183 available single assets (Mortgages, CFD, Deed of Trusts) for sale.

A quick Google search and after reading some reviews, I reached out to a PM company.

That's why it's important to review them during your due diligence period.That being said, a lease is a contract.  

If you're able to get a better picture from someone who can lay eyes on it - it might be worth paying for those scopes ahead of purchasing in order to get the deals you're looking for quickly and more often.I'd try joining local REI groups on Facebook that may be able to provide you with reviews and recommendation of investors, contractors, and realtors in the area that may help you expand your network.Best of luck to you!

As far as the real impact, it can depend on what you want to do with the property, if you have a discretioanry review the City will ask you to relocate the utility...which is often cost prohibitive.

Yes I would suggest getting loan docs in place, they normally give them to the attorney for signature and review. 6 months is a short timeline for your 1st deal , make sure you have an extension clause, in case you do have seasoning requirements.

Online reviews are great... but would love to hear from anyone on here who has used them.  

Like @Marcus Auerbach said, do a review on HVAC and roof, gutters, double check plumbing/drainage, and make sure filters, light bulbs, and smoke detector batteries are all in good working order.Do a walk-through of the property as if you were someone looking for a place to rent with a hypercritical eye.