Unless you can convince the lender to do a seriously low short sale, I'd take a hard pass on your relative's problem.  

If you aren't sure how to do this, there are plenty of resources on BP, but you might entertain hiring an experienced PM.

The 2 year certifications require dust swab samples from multiple areas (windows, window sills, floors) of each room (not basements) and the exterior must also pass visual inspection. 

If I know that the individual who owned the house has passed away, is that a better tax lien to buy (or not)? 

. ($85k) The ONLY thing preventing the loans from being accepted is the square footage of the house. (500 sf) Everything else about the house passes with flying colors!

I much rather spend that money resealing the balconies and pass the visual inspection with flying colors.

It will only get worse.Hard pass unless he brings an extremely narrow expertise.

I can get you a free guest pass, just DM me. 

To get a couple dozen units that you own personally... save your pennies, buy right, be patient and let a few years pass.

We got a shaman to come in and it turned out there were 4 ghosts including the previous owner who had passed away there and the original owner of the house who had died there during child birth.