I think I have learned by trial and error. This business is nothing like I thought it would be when I first started. Get a copy of the deed and any open mortgages then run their names in the judgments books (yeah, right). It is far worse than I ever imagined. As far as full titles, Maryland requires a 60 year chain and the way everyone is flipping properties, they are nothing but a hassle. I just will not do them.
As far as my parenting skills, I hope that one day, I will have made a mark in my childrens lives. I hope, by being in this business, my kids will learn work ethic. You have to have plenty of that to be in this business, that's for sure.  
My son is graduating from high school tomorrow night, the next step to see if this "work ethic" thing really works.