For those of you that have good w2 income and want to take advantage of employer matching (100% return!)

Columbus also has great macroeconomics - lots of job growth, population growth, and major employers developing here.

There are a couple of others less commonly used. 

Avoiding the occupants from squatting is best addressed with background checks, employment verifications, and references before signing the lease.

I have heard that it is common practice that private money lenders collect a monthly fee thru various methods, I'm trying to determine what those methods are.   

while I totally understand the frustration especially purchasing what was supposed to be a new and ready to go asset, but these things are pretty common so don't feel to discouraged. 

I am a self employed residential general contractor.

You can close in an LLC and don't need to provide employment history, income or tax returns, and DTI isn't a factor.

Alternatively, once you have a full time job (or an employment contract), you should be able to qualify for a loan and utilize a Down Payment Assistance program.

I will give you the common-sense answer below, but this is California, where common sense doesn't exist.A mandatory evacuation is outside of your control, so you shouldn't suffer financially because of it.