We understand the risk of having the tenant’s utilities in our name and the hassle of owner billing back utilities to the tenant (we do this on quite a few units for water).  

How can I make the company liable for making this mistake and now passing the bill over to me?

. - Then you get the headache of billing every owner, every month!

Based on past deals, Bill knew it was priced below what it would appraise for.

Quote from @Bill Schrimpf: @Will Sifert - Guess I was lucky to buy some liens last year without paying a premium, didn't even get down to zero!. 

Quote from @Bill B.: I BELIEVE it’s just a sticking point not a prohibited one like it is with self directed Ira’s.

@Nick Sansivero, Spot on by @Bill B.. 

@Bill Wagers, Unfortunately, these are the kind of questions your QI should have answered in your first phone call with them.  1031's are strange and mysterious at first. 

In terms of debts, I agree with @JoeHammel - A title company is the best resource to check on all liens which could be contractor, IRS, bankruptcy, local utility bills or property tax, child support, etc. 

@Jerry CallowThere are strong rent control laws, tenant Bill of Rights, etc.