Regardless if it's a low probability event, it's something that should be prepared for.

Meaning, can/are you able to fully finance yourself with the funds from REI (able to pay your own medical bills out of pocket, savings built up enough so you don't need 401K, etc.)I just don't know what to expect and It would be amazing to get some insight on it so that I know what to prepare for.Thanks BP!

House as it would be around 4000 for mortgage+tax, and max rent it could fetch is 3000 or so in the meantime we'd prepare to get plans, constructors etc together to build a new house on its plot. 

This time I will be prepared.

That style of building usually has separate gas/electric metering per apartment, so the landlord pays water/sewer/trash.On the topic of your agent not wanting to make an offer, have you asked your agent to prepare an offer?

Whatever your move, it will likely draw a counter-move, so be prepared.

Please read and learn about the velocity of money to prepare your mindset. 

In other words, if they have no proof, but you do, then you win as most states have landlord/tenant law that favors the tenant.As was stated above, keep your small claims court date and be prepared to take your proof, as well as a VERY detailed account of everything you can remember from conversations and other occurrences between you and the landlord, or the landlord's rep, to court with you.In Colorado, for example, the landlord must return the deposit in full, or issue a check and a detailed statement covering the amounts not returned, within 30 days. 

I learned something new and I'll be better prepared in case I see these in some future pool. 

No sorry it is not in my plans for the forseeable future.Alternately you could suggest you will have the work done by qualified contractors if he is prepared to pay for it.