For things like that you can present the tenant with the bill and they add it to the rent and you pay the bill directly, so you know it is paid.Also make sure the damage deposit is transferred to you from the previous owner at closing as that money belongs to the tenant.

The $16,000 renovation budget presented a clear opportunity to add value.

In California, with activist judges, and attorneys who may choose to take certain cases based on let's just say physiology versus money, to me it presents more risk- which is why I do not operate in California.

The $20,000 renovation budget presented a clear opportunity to add value.

Document these improvements and present them to your insurer.Working with an insurance broker specializing in multi-family properties in California is crucial.

@John Guillory I personally believe that its the way in which you are presenting yourself when you talk directly with the homeowners that gives the "shady" terminology.

@Ariel Gonzalez, I will also note that while there is a lot of very sound advice being presented here, including my own comments, none of this is actually measurable.  

Even if there is no sign and tenants are present, a poorly maintained exterior is a good sign that a building might be buyable.

Jay -The seller presented me a signed counter offer and my professional JOB is to submit over any documents to my clients as soon as possible.  

interst is charged on the loan through the date its paid off ....she could  contact present lender and  ask for a " payoff  statement "  using  a date in the future