You'll need to do open houses to find potential buyers to represent, so plan on working every weekend.

If I don’t hear from you in the next 10 minutes, I will assume you aren’t attending and I will move on to my next appointment.Using this system as dramatically reduced any wasted time I used to endure as part of the showing process as well as giving me data about their timeliness/responsiveness/respect for others' time.At the showing, I collect their completed application (sent via PDF prior or filled out on premises), scan their photo ID and last 2 pay stubs.Then, I do some digging around online (social media, court records, Google) and if it looks like they are representing themselves to me accurately, I contact them to set up a "contract to hold" meeting - usually the day after the showing since qualified applicants need to be "closed" ASAP.

2) When I open the account, should I have an up front conversation with a credit union representative about my investing aspirations and desire to get a future loan?

You'll need a deed from the Personal Representative of the estate of the spouse who passed away last.

The larger the agency, the more insurance carriers they will represent. 

I've never heard of the court imposing a restriction on how much you can pay a lawyer to represent your case.

Is there a real estate broker involved in the transaction representing either side?

Caliber Home Loans, was an amazing asset through the entire process as well as Patrick Walsh the Agent who represented both sides in the transaction.

She told me if we do a 5-day inspection period, let her represent us, and close all-cash in one week, she would go with us versus the other offer that's over list but is financed.

Maybe even a mortgage broker (someone that represents many different banks).