So in HI we start the process immediately after the closing, but we have paperwork and everything established 3 weeks prior to closing.

Prior owner needed funds and I bought at a discount for cash How did you finance this deal?

Killz all the walls prior to painting.

There are existing bookings scheduled shortly after our closing date and it won't be feasible to complete the necessary work prior to relisting if we attempt to honor the existing bookings.

No additional cosmetics or upgrades will be performed without prior written approval by PM. 2) During Move-in inspection, only "damages" will be noted, along with "new", "OK", "fair", or "poor" as overall indicator for any particular element.

Does anyone recommend us having an agent or inspector look at the propoerty prior to us beginning the wholesale contract?

Many educational references listed in prior posts are great recommendations - now just add some local activity to start networking.  

I do have one long term rental and one Airbnb, but I actually owned these prior to knowing about REI.

The prior owner was a hoarder  and will need to be cleaned out with hazmat gear.  

@Michael B.It is good that you are realizing this issue prior to purchasing anything.