In cases of environmental contamination, that can limit what could be there in the future, for example a former car repair shop (that you found the stale yelp reviews for) is likely sufficiently contaminated that it can only ever be something like that, you won't be able to put a daycare center or restaurant in there. 

The Committee makes no representations of any kind as to the environmental condition of the property.

(btw my belongings in my office, like the rest of my footprint in the house, will be very minimal: this small desk, quality office chair, + desktop computer. my thought is i’d put the computer in a closet + leave desk out as a workspace for guests; alternatively i could put all office in closet.)

I.e. environmentally conscientious, cost of ownership, generally lifestyle and design, and/or part of a 3rd party verification program.

The best documentation in the world won't help you strategically plan how to use your 1031 opportunity if the QI isn't responsive to in a timely manner.Demonstrated experience and nationwide footprint I would toss out as the two most important criteria. 

Not when they are near work.There is lots of info about financials, environmental, all that stuff out there. 

And we known there are many more Govt costs such as environmental studies and the like that increase both the cost and the timeline (Which in turn increases the cost even more...)City Heights is Gentrifying, has been for a while, I made good money there in the Mid 2000's, and it's no longer affordable for most lower income folks, period.

But the concept of reducing your personal financial footprint is big. 

The 400k$ quote is for a quite extensive whole house remodel (moving walls, windows, openings, expanding footprint and +1 bath, +1bed) and includes design, consultants and permits.

Some sites require asbestos testing and/or possible environmental testing as well where demolition occurs.