As some of the other members have already mentioned, proper notice needs to be given to your tenants, certain bank accounts need to be maintained and certain rules of access need to be followed.

The first engineer wouldn't answer any calls/emails so we had to find another guy who would certify, he was less easy going and made up do some foundation improvements before he would certify.

I also thought access to the MLS and being able to show myself properties would be a good asset!

From what I heard, banks and credit unions tend to decline loan applications from self-employed people because we're viewed as high-risk.Are there any best practices or tips on how I can improve my chances of getting a home loan?

-For the value of the building, either check the tax records (some municipalities make it easy to access via an open website) for purchase prices, or use a website like zillow or realtor.com to see the sale prices of the surrounding buildings. 

It's alley access since a row home, but on the end so convenient,  but a car couldn't get to the back. 

An agent with access to first time home buyer programs. 

He is allowing me access to the MLS thru him but I’m uncertain what data is best to have in order analyze comps/potential deals.Here are some things I plan on asking:-Comps in my target area-Hot ZonesThings I’m unsure on:-What data I should prioritize without having a subject property to allow me to find potential deals-should I continually check in with him to record update data?

Not in too bad of condition but definitely can be spruced up.What would you improve in this rental to add value and  increase rent just from looking at the photos?

I think they are different from what I've read.Dmitriy - Yes, absolutely 5.75% is FAR cheaper money than anything HML and far easier to access cash than any other source of financing.