I am a commercial driver (truck driver) I run from West Coast to East Coast.

Definitely set up the key word alerts, and maybe check some of the recent forum posts about Chattanooga, I know there have been a couple investors looking for a local wholesaler.

Dad died, mom received keys in the mail from tenant.  

As Bill mentioned, FINDING good notes is the key.

and does not bode welll for the Tech Industry which is a MAJOR driver of values in the SF Bay area.

Going slow does work , education is the key.

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Locate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info.

I walked in and said "boss give me the keys, I have this handled.

Buying in Alberta could be risky with the economy, extra due diligence would be key. 

I suspect they would want a key lock on the inside, or some positive locking feature.