Seems like a red flag that she is able to pay a year up front.  

So, I'm hoping with some help from some experienced people on here to avoid any major red flags or pitfalls.  

While it is a great place to live, if your job forces you to commute to VA (by car), the traffic to get over the American Legion bridge is horrific.

I understand that could be a red flag because that could mean if they cause damage or something it may be difficult to get money out of them, but wouldn't it be preferable to get your money up front.

I have, like many invested in education (bachelors/master) looking for my piece of the American dream.

The first thing that strikes me as a red flag is that the current owner hasn't even owned it for a year and is looking to sell for a $300k increase on what they paid for it.

This is a red flag for me that I learned the hard way.  

I would think First American Title in Madison would be experienced.

Any higher and it would be a red flag for the bank underwriters (rules are rules).

You can keep the money in an american bank and fix & flip in the states, Bellingham perhaps.