Do you have an inspector lined up prior to close?

Once you put down earnest money, pay a appraiser and inspector, then you have skin in the game and are more likely to pay over your initial desired purchase price. 

The best thing will be to get an inspector to inform me of everything that needs to be done, then get my estimates.I'm already pre-approved for a mortgage with a bank, but want to use that as my very last resort bc they're strict with who you can use to do the rehab once you're under a 203K loan.  

I cant speak for an investment property, but i bought my house without ever seeing it in person or meeting the inspector.

Local building inspectors can tell you what is reasonable in that area. 

I was able to address all the listed violations, but oh man, this inspector just seemed to have it out for me.

@Aaron PhillipsCall a home inspector and convince him to come with you, no report necessary if he just shows up and lets you walk the property with him?

Perhaps a nice 1950's built bungalow.Always hire a 3rd party property inspector to give you an unbiased feel for the home.

@Chris Quinn helped me find a great local lender and inspector. 

How is ethical for the HUD inspector and bank to do this?