I would definitely consult with an attorney and CPA to ensure that you get what you need and want for your goals and purpose...

Only a fool would attempt to defuse a bomb with simple step by step instructions without proper training.

If so, does the agent put together a contract to ensure that my finders fee is paid beforehand?  

Is it zoned properly?

- however, renting is the right option at the moment and I want to ensure that I cover my own back without coming off as over-sensitive or pushy. 

Your time here will be well spent.Since you expressed an interest in buy and hold as well as multifamily units, I added links below for your review.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/01/04/how-to-rent-your-house/ (house rental guide)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/22/buying-rental-property/ (how to buy a rental property)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/07/19/how-to-buy-a-duplex/ (guide to buying a duplex) https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/16/how-to-choose-areas-multifamily-deals/ (Choosing multi-family deals)Now that you have made the move, below are some links that will help with the navigation of the site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categorieshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)Before your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REIs)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

FCRA is Fair Credit Reporting Act and meant to ensure you don't discriminate based on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or public assistance.  

What he is offering is:-His team will do the due diligence on the title to ensure it's clean-acquire the property from auction with room to make 20-50% profit-provide actual comparables-consultation prior to auctionHe wants a non-refundable payment of $2500 to set up an account and the $2500 per property making it $5000 up front (in addition to actually financing the properties in question).

Tenants have been vetted properly. 

However I do disagree with the characterization that "nothing moves quickly" - a quality rehab will go under contract quickly as long as it is priced and promoted properly.