Vermin activity at a duplex we are considering to buy

[Edita D.]

Hey guys!
We are considering a purchase of an out of state property, and the inspector notified us of vermin activity in the attic and atop the air coil/furnace cabinet. This is freaking me out. Apart from being disgusting, is this common? I just want to be logical about this.

Property had lots of issues with it, including HVAC, possible structural damage (larger than usual cracks in the interior walls). I don't even think I want to investigate it more because of the RATS...
Would you?

[Bill W.]

If the price of the property is adequately reduced because of these problems, it should be fine. Get estimates on how much it will take to eliminate the rats and necessary repairs and make sure those costs are reflected in the purchase price.

You find your deals in real estate by taking on distressed properties that the average buyer doesnt want to deal with, buying at a discount and remedying those problems.

My bigger issue though is that you say you're out of state. The problems that come with the property will be harder to address from a distance. If youre shopping for distressed properties, I would only do so locally.