First Deal - Black Mold in Basement?

[Devin Otway]

Hello BPers!

I am currently under contract for my first deal - a 1940s triplex in a C area. I am an out of state investor so have some limitations in terms of being able to really see the property. I did, however, hire a photographer to take a ton of pictures during the inspection, which was helpful. 2 of the units are rented at 600 and the third unit is vacant and in need of light rehab (5k). 

The units are in decent condition where the most worrisome issues are evidence of water damage below windows and on the ceilings in some places. The seller's disclosure is listed as unknown on all items.

The basement, however, freaks me out...It has evidence of mold everywhere (not sure if its truly toxic or not). There is also of deterioration of some of the studs in the basement due to water damage and some evidence of termite damage. No sump pump in the basement.

• What are your thoughts on mold damage from an investment standpoint? 
• Is there any way to know if sheetrock + framing studs need to be replaced and who can evaluate that scope of damage? 
• Who can evaluate the source of the moisture?
• Do you need to be concerned that the mold could also have spread to the rest of the house?

[Alan Pederson]

I wouldn't buy something that looked like this