I also suspect the vast majority of lenders will take exception to your mom being the 1st position lien (look up strategic default).

Welcome to the forums Raymond!

Thanks for the replies. 

A partner and I began searching, and after coming up empty for 6 months, we were sent this deal by a close friend and ended up closing a month later.

However, have you ever gone downtown to the steps near the capital and witnessed a Trustee sale? 

Check and reset them daily to remove the dead ones and reset the traps.Poison is easier and works well, but the mice die somewhere in the house and you may have an odor problem for a week or two.

I'd simply ignore them.

I currently live in 1 apartment in the 4plex.

I have asked the property management company to coordinate with the neighbor since the tree was neglected and he is liable. 

No matter where you settle upon, your idea to build really comes down to your goals.