This will gut all cash flow for at least 2 years. i had other little repair in which seems suspicious  , a full  electric panel replacement which wiped out cash flow for two months.

The other thing that was suspicious was that the scammer kept emailing/texting me to let them know once I’ve wired it, the third thing was they last minute sent an “alternate” escrow bank account number.

@Greg Scott its a very rural area, I'm very suspicious and will proceed as cautiously as i can.

, get robbed, and the bank will report it as a suspicious activity if I try to bank it".

Sounds like these are guys that don't ay their bills on time and are suspicious who you work for.I'd start with "I'm buying houses in the neighbor (state your purpose) and I was wondering if you'd let me make an offer on your property?

I am naturally suspicious.

I called the local police non-urgent line to report the suspicious activity.  

Unlike 2 years ago, this time around at least 50% or more interested candidates were either unemployed, in a position of having to move out suspiciously because a Landlord is selling the property (figured why!)

I would look VERY closely at the tub itself for any signs of cracks (from flexing when people get in/out and shower); if ALL of the tub plumbing (drain, waste and overflow, shower riser, faucets and supplies) was not replaced at the same time all the way to a logical point at the main supply / sewer main, I would be suspicious of the older piping and connections, especially if an old style trap was left in place, or worse, some actual lead waste pipe.

To address this, we verify the property owner per government records and use this information to vet imposters.Anything that seems suspicious will lead to us requesting an acceptable Letter of Explanation to address.Analyze IncomeMany landlords require a month of paystubs from applicants and just use these to calculate a monthly qualifying income.