I know that most people say it's dependent upon your area and what you are comfortable but I am just looking for any guidance.

If you're more comfortable saying you're owner, just say it.

If so, you should accept and be comfortable that you are paying in large part because of your fear.2.    

The agent will prepare a commitment with requirements for closing including a deed from the party the insurer believes is authorized to sign the deed and any supporting docs they need to be comfortable in issuing a title policy to you w/o an exception for your concerns.

I'd be surprised if there is a sustainable builder in Texas that I have not at least talked to, if I don't actually know them.I am trying to develop projects that allow these folks to showcase their work so people may discover that they can live in healthy, efficient, comfortable, forever homes that don't burn,  and are insect proof and mold free. 

He took me under his wing until I had enough experience and was comfortable enough to open my own Brokerage.  

If you are not 100% comfortable/confident then do not move forward without one. 

It is all about your comfort level, but for me and many others on here they will note your better off investing that money in a deal and learning that way then spending large sums of money on gurus.

I am sure there are deals to be found in Contra Costa and Alameda however the entry price is daunting in my head and I feel more comfortable getting started with something closer to the 200k and under.

However, if this is during an economic downturn when default would likely happen, there might be no equity in the house for the original seller, and I can't see how a seller would be comfortable being ultimately responsible for a mortgage that might last 20-30 years.