I believe creative financing, specifically subject-to, could be the solution.

Request clarification on why your request was denied and inquire if there are any alternative options or solutions available.

In the end you just need to know what you are trying to accomplish first THEN find the solutions for it.

I think your best and maybe only solution is to put in a french drain across the yard with a large catch basin at the low point.

People find creative new solutions.

Although this is probably less likely than the water leaking in through the window wells, it is possible, and you'll want to eliminate it as a cause of the flooding before deciding on how to fix the issue, because if it's groundwater, then the solution to the problem may be completely different than if it's water coming from other sources.As you consider these questions, keep in mind that water follows the path of least resistance--for example, water will flow through a gravel-filled trench much quicker than through solid earth/clay.

It is always extremely eye opening to see how our community can creatively find solutions as one. 

However, it suddenly becomes much less passive and with city governments starting to crack down on it, its now a very risky solution long term.Happy to connect and chat more

Hard money is sort of a last resort, that's typically meant to be a short-term solution and will carry a higher rate and/or fees compared to most other options. 

Try to keep it cordial and you might have the right solution.