And what can be done to prevent this problem? 

@Lisa Mazzarri , I believe Forum rules prevent me from posting contact info about who will do a double close, but I have a number of contacts that can help you with that.

Give nearby cross streets, and even announce in your ad that you are doing it to prevent ad-theft.Report any ads you see on Craigslist.

To prevent from any chance of discrimination accusations, and systematize our screening process we have minimum requirements such as:Minimum Requirements: •Monthly gross income at least 3.5 times the monthly rent  •NO convicted felonies •NO sex offenders •Minimum credit score of 600 (check yours for free at creditkarma.com) •NO previous evictionsWhen we get several applicants that meet the minimum requirements and cant decide because its too close we will use the equation below.

Surveys are not required, but he may have mentioned it just so you are sure of what your property lines are and to prevent you from thinking what may be your property and it turning out it is not.

@Garison Clemens i was planning on going but hurricane prep prevented my partner and I from attending.

That was my intent, hopefully prevent the same thing from happening to someone else.

Mark C.Contestability, just as redemption, does not prevent you from selling but will generally prevent a title policy from being issued. 

I realize this may be a marginal deal but I believe in the area’s appreciation and some cashflow.I honestly couldn’t see where I would have to spend more than a $1000 for repairs, everything, floor to roof was 3 years old.My offer was on the fly given what she gave me, but it was to buy subject to the existing mortgage, take over her debt, prevent foreclosure or ruining her credit.

3) are there any things about the property that might prevent this from being allowed?