I had a big buildings dept problem (complete BS actually), $6k+ in fines and rising, a $2000 "retainer" to the right lawyer made it vanish.

You maybe right but I can't imagine how a new build can be crazier.I'd like to retain a good GC so to make this project less agonizing to me personally.I have to cash-out refi to do more.

Land contracts aka contract for deed is an installment purchase contract where the seller retains title until the contract provisions have been met.

Now, it may be possible to retain a small slice of ownership.

The covenants states: Section 2 Residence Each Owner shall maintain his Residence in good condition and repair and all exterior colors and materials, including the exterior walls, trim, doors and roof, shall be retained as close to the original as is reasonable possible.

Yes, I was quoted 4k, but that included a retaining wall, so I would say more like 3k.

Look to state law and your lease agreeement, personal property can be retained for payments due, in other words, you can block the movement of the home.

I still retain my MLS access by being my partners assistant. he is an agent.

Aside from the obvious he said there will be a lot of major retaining wall work that needs to be done in the back of the house.

As the owner residing in the home, the tenant is considered a 'lodger' per CA law (my month-to-month explicitly retains my access to all parts of the house).