I used The CE Shop for my prelicensing courses and thought they were pretty good, although I don't really have anything to compare them to haha. 

I understand all of the coastal towns & who their guests are, more importantly, compare data on all of these markets to help you decide which town is the best spot for your home.

I understand that comparing homes that share likeness with the prospective property is the basic ideology.

I compare it to someone wanting to build themselves their own car.

@Christophe D. this appears to be a very minor situation when at least compared to other tenant stories shared in the BP forums.

You need to do your own research by going on AIR and VRBO and comparing similar rentals during different times of the year, and different lengths of stay.....Other than that, sounds good...you say you're already aware of the pitfalls of HOAs, so if the price is really that good, go for it.....

Get a reliable quote on the cost to fix it up completely and compare that + closing costs + commission + what you paid and see if you can come out on top now in the market.

I'm also from New Jersey, lived in Journal Square area in Jersey City and now I'm in West Houston/Katy, Texas.I am not sure how the prices are in Central New Jersey but I reckon they must be a much more expensive market compared to here in Texas.

Am I correct in assuming I should contact the current owners of the comps and get that info from them, and if so, what are key things to compare?

The answers are quick but you must ask the right people, ask a lot of people then compare and confirm for yourself afterwards.