I used to tell alot of people when I worked at the bank, if you were in my position and somebody came that you had no history with and asked for a loan with your exact same situation would you lend your own money to them.

Walk through together to make sure.Always get backup contractors because they get sick, die, leave you etc.Make sure contractor has his name or company on the permitCheck real estate commission for licenses of realtorsCheck secretary of state to make sure contractor is licensedIf you have mold, asbestos, radon make sure the contractor is certified to remove it.General contractors do not like to work with subs that they do not chooseProject manager can not have too much going on or else they will neglect youMake sure you get the general contractor sign over a document regarding he will be responsible for paying subs because you do not want his subs to turn around and sue you because they say he did not pay themGet the names and phone numbers of all subsRecord all phone calls. 

One of the houses has a history of drug users, not currently.

Or if they have already signed, just draw up a separate document stating that the property is in a flood zone and this document acknowledges you letting the tenants know.

Hi! I am in preparation to rent out my property. I was thinking of putting in a yard post like the realtors use with the plastic box with information (rental criteria) and the phone number to call to get an applicatio...

Since you are eligible for VA look at buildings up to 4 units, live in one unit, rehab as needed other units, create some equity and a rent roll history, re-fi and move every two years with no capital gains.

If they are willing to provide these documents or perhaps a copy of a passport they may be serious.

In this space you want to be more concerned with rental history, ignore that they don't pay a lot of their bills, you are only concerned that they pay your bill (the rent).  

I've been tracking all of my expenses and documenting everything, but am looking to talk with someone about how to do so properly.Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

What does the price and rent history there tell you?