I just don't understand how he can put a lien for 2x the amount of work done, and then tack on $4k for fun(which he wont have any proof for), have no signed docs, no license at time of work, and still have the upper hand.

Spend time analyzing deals until one fit your criteria (sorry, there's no easy bullet.

you probably already know this but taping the window glass might help with breakage, shards.

I may have to bite the bullet and pay for an inspection and hope its not to bad that i have to back out of the deal, putting me out of the money from the inspection.

Euro style glass door and glass panel above the knee wall.

Ask for proof of funds and a SS award letter, or a bank statement that shows the amount of her SS.  

If you can show proof of loss of funds from renting, then you might be able to sue the city for that.

The vinyl ones seem pretty bullet proof outside of costing considerably more.

If the title is out of your name, you'll probably need proof.

Lender had to sign off on the check and wanted proof I did the repairs.