I forget off-hand which one it is, but in the fine print of the appraisal report there is a certification that states the appraiser had adequate data to develop a credible opinion of value - clearly they don't and should have withdrawn from the assignment.They don't have enough comps.

Court searches, with local tax certificate for village or City taxes, if any (collectively the "Abstract" and (ii) an instrument survey map, certified and prepared to meet the Standards of the (locality) Bar Association and Buyer's mortgage lender, if any (the "Survey").

Well, I'll quote FannieMae.com directly here:"Borrowed funds secured by an asset are an acceptable source of funds for the down payment, closing costs, and reserves, since borrowed funds secured by an asset represent a return of equity.Assets that may be used to secure funds include automobiles, artwork, collectibles, real estate, or financial assets, such as savings accounts, certificates of deposit, stocks, bonds, and 401(k) accounts."

The tax sale certificate must be surrendered & is null & void.A tax deed cannot be issued until three years from the date of the tax sale.

Also in Detroit where I’m investing they are very strict on having rentals up to code so I’ll be using some of the extra money I had saved for obtaining my Certificate of Compliance.

Good luck getting them to ever issue you another rental certificate again. 

If you decide to go this route I would not give them any money till the work has been completed, they have passed inspection, gotten a certificate of occupancy, and have opened for business.

That was inclusive of the inspector reports, remediation, and re-inspection for issuance of certificate. 

Can you send me a copy of his certificate, so I can check this out?

True it is cash, and Coinstar will give you gift certificates to lots of places.