I get courted by all of these guys all the time..

If your facts are not strong, or the judge or jury just do not believe them, you run the risk of court saying you did not occupy exclusively and continuously, you did not burn off redemption rights, or you did not possess before the time limit and you lose everything.

Cheap and functional is all it needs to be.

And if I was one of your clients, I would much rather you put your energy into defending me in court, then learning how to properly patch, sand, tape, and prep the walls for painting.I personally have painted a couple of my own projects, but I had the time and somewhat knowledge and experience, and also had run to the bottom of my budget at those times.A few tips/comments which may be helpful:*  As someone else previously posted - gets multiple quotes (3-5)* Ask you fellow realtor friends/associates for painter referrals* Check NextDoor.com for painter referrals* Go to the professional paint stores (Dunn-Edwards, Benjamin Moore, etc) and ask them for referrals.

When researching applicants I review county court records. 

Obviously everything I do is a function of what my goals are, and yet at this point I can only partially answer that question.

Once you have a shortlist, sign up for an account with each one and test them extensively to see how they function.

The intention of this instrument was to avoid the probate courts and to provide for step-up basis when he passes.  

I'm not aware of it ever being tested in court. 

Same as any court judgment against the tenants.