Now I have a better understanding in the paying process but it was baby sitting in every step.

I'm sure several of you have done this, a step by step would be great along with what to look out for.Thanks!

What is my next step going forward?

And use a two or three step form.

I am looking at using flipping and BRRRR methods for my own personal REI.

the market rents in the area do not include storage, garages or washer n dryer hook ups, these are unique money making units, the average storage unit at a self storage place is around $125/mo I figure I could charge 100/mo per garage bay and 75/mo for the storage units, 3 very large storage units and 2 garage bays, I would keep a garage bay for myself. offering a discount to the current tenants seems like a smart idea.I was thinking later down the line, either refinancing for 2nd property, or trying to get the permits to turn the finished attic into a 4th apartment and turning the 2.5 story garage into a 5th apartment(townhouse style), then I'd have 5 doors on 1 property, seems appealing though I have not even bother researching this yet because I'm trying to take it one step at a time.

So having the deed under your LLC name is the critical step. 

I have read that recording of the contract was one of the steps.

My problem with the 3rd (and easiest for the landlord) method is that could end up being quite a few people who don't have a chance of qualifying that end up paying a non-refundable background check etc fee. 

Nope, for the most part you have to look through all the listings like everyone else, but many search methods will let you filter for short sales, and agents can filter for short sales, probate, REOs etc.