There was a water supply line that got damaged during hurricane Milton, resulting in a $600 water bill.

I can see paying a mentor a couple thousand cause they’ve done it before….

Like you mentioned, the equity is less, but the stability causes less headache.

She claimed that when people pulled up to the home it set off her motion activated door bell as well causing her undue stresswe have always been civil towards her and after these past two incidents this month alone is what I was seeking guidance here. 

A deposit is refundable if conditions are met (no damage). 

Who takes charge of contacting the vendor when some pieces show up damaged?

Talk to them and ask them not to lean it on the fence as you are worried about it damaging the fence. 

Well now year 1 has an extra deduction of $800 ($2,000 total) causing tax to go down that year.

To do it safely its a niche and one needs to be aware of all the things that can trap you and cause you a negative experience..

I see too many of these pull a rabbit out of a hat deals that just cause you more trouble and headaches down the road.