Inspector said one thing, general contractor said another

[Pat Jackson]

If you find my other posts, you'll see my interest in a 5 unit apartment complex in a C area.  I now have it under contract.  

I had the building inspected this week.  The building was built in 1910.  The inspector found settling (as expected) but said overall the bones are good.

Today calling around for various quotes addressing issues discovered I contacted a General Contractor.  Lot's of great reviews online, well known in the area.  Does everything from new builds to remodels, and everything in between.

Anyway, he went over since the 5 unit is close to his office and did a walk around.  He said, "I wouldn't take this if someone gave it to me".  He sited settling and said the bones were not good.  I did not pay him for his time.  I did pay for the inspection.

Who's right?  I'm going to attempt and get a quote from a foundation specialist.  I'm also going to get the opinion of another GC.  I don't know this GC, but his initial impression online and over the phone (been in business 40+ years) seems pretty solid.  He doesn't have a reason to lie, as he could get the job if I close.

Here are some pictures if someone wants to weigh in.  At this time I'm not subscribing to any wild theories like the GC wants it for himself.  

[Russell Brazil]

Everything is a matter of someone's perspective. I have people here in the DC area who have issues with every day items on their inspections like loose toilets that they think are the end of the world. If they went to New England where the housing stock is much older, they would think every house up there should be condemned.

If that GC does more work in A class areas, he might think most C class stuff is crap.