Carl,As a fellow property manager and real estate broker I think there are some key item to look for:Any moisture on the windows, around toilets, under sinks.

Premium vinyl or laminated flooring.Laminated is a bit restricted to low moisture.

I haven't heard of anything quite like you're describing, but in general I always tell people to use a higher sheen whenever moisture is present.

I wouldn't say one if better than the other, and both are effected by water/drainage/moisture, but the issues to look for are different for both.

If you see a falling inflation adjusted per capita income, you need to carefully consider the long term risk associated with buying a property in that location property.MaintenanceSome of the major factors for maintenance are:Age of the property - the older the property, the more maintenance it will require.Climate - Moisture and temperature are both major factors.

I have an unfinished basement that we noticed has some mild to moderate levels of moisture on some soil/dirt on the floor we just discovered.

Mold can be a little trickier as you have to figure out where the moisture is coming from. 

If they were deteriorating, with moisture getting through the grout lines (if tile walls), they will continue to deteriorate behind the shiny new paint.A potentially bigger issue is the overall age of the tub/surround/piping.

The LL is NOT responsible for tenant belongings stored in this area that may be ruined due to the moisture/water, as water could be possible. 

@Nathan G. part of the issue is moisture too.