I’ve been devoted to raising my three children and most days (especially recently as we’ve made the decision to homeschool during this season with COVID) it’s a struggle to get through the day unscathed just to get up early and do it all over again the next day.  A

You could hire a freelance estimator but if they aren't tied to a contractor then you'll be at risk because at the end of the day a contractor and/or handyman will have to commit to a number. 

If you can't make a decision and have an offer in place same day a deal hits the market you missed your opportunity most times in this market.

The last two water bills I have received indicate that I use an outrageous 130-150 gal/day as a single person (and I am very water-conscientious). 

If you time it right you can sell the house on the same day as the agreed-upon option purchase date. 250k (from buyer) -150k (you owe to the current owner) - expenses and closing fees - this would hopefully net you a solid profit without having to put down the 20%. 

However there are other reasons for the drive bys too that I’m not aware of- just the other day a guy had told me it was for  mortgage “forbearance” which was a new term I learned. 

At the end of the day, as the property owner, you should be able to override their decisions.

Makes my day, a new title.... :-)

I agree with @Markus Shobe that questions should be consolidated to once a month or even week, but not every day. A

I was in the navy and I would love to become one day a successful real estate investor like Brandon turner is.