I was curious if it's worth my time to get a certification in property management as that seems to be a big blank spot in my mind.

The winning bidder can take possession as soon as they get their tax certificate, usually a few weeks after the auction. 

@Anthony Gale  You need to get an estoppel certificate completed ASAP. 

As a first time investor the near suburbs might be a better bet.Additionally (and very importantly) I would make sure you are well versed in what is going on with the city certification process right now.

I am also working on finishing up my Masters Degree in Construction Management and a Real Estate Development Certificate from USC. 

I have a some college experience in interior design, and also have my certificate in Building Construction & Carpentry.I LOVE homes; they are a huge passion of mine.

@Kathy Utiss Did you get any info on that 90% LTV commercial loan through FM?

In the event when it is filled with the sand, soil should have been tested and report/certificate generated.

Lots of strong C-class neighborhoods to explore.Know that all rental properties built before 1978 (which is most in B'more area) are required to have a lead-safe/lead-free certificate.

Interest(s) - if title research reviews record owner is deceased, determine heirsOpportunities - this is where you list all the ways to acquire, control and/or exploit the equity in the property.Specific to finding owners (aka "targets") we use subscription-based online Genealogy sites, skip-tracing software as well as public records, such as death certificates, anecdotal research and highly paid gumshoes (PIs).