We then created an additional part of the application that scrapes tax assessment sites for that info and imports it directly into the database with all the other info.

Cleared a home-site, put in a driveway and some other site work with cash. 

I recommend watching the webinars on site, Listening to the podcast on the way to work, and reading every REI book you can find.

I'd like to know if the appraisals listen on a tax assessors site are ARV prices (if the home was in perfect condition), or what the house is worth as it sits.

I've had the hardest time trying to message you on the site.

If it happens to be bad timing, you may not be able to sell it in which case you have to hold onto it and try to rent it out to produce income.Note buying is only passive if you do it through a syndication or crowdfunding site that will handle all of that for you.

You can just use other sites.  

I've looked into advertising on zillow/realtor, Facebook and other sites but with no experience I'm not sure on which one or if any is most beneficial for a new realtor at a relatively unknown brokerage.

I just think it would be better served to be posted on an insurance blog/forum or something. if you dont want to sign an AOB....then dont sign it...seems simple to me and doesn't warrant a post blasting the roofing industry.

Great that you joined the site!