I've read that the payout ratio on title insurance is ludicrously low - would it be cheaper to simply self-insure and do the raw research myself (go to the county courthouse and verify good title)?

Trust but verify.

A healthy dose of cynicism, some double identities, and an all out goood time!

Ok - when I think "conventional", or "conforming" I see lots of money down, verified income, good debt to income ratios, one fixed single loan.

What about their prior landlord-is it a verifiable company or an individual?

I verify their financing myself if I haven't done business with them before.

By doing so, you have some idea of what price range you looking at.When looking at pre-construction projects as investment opportunities, I’ve noted that most “Hard Money” lenders state that they want Verified Assets (6 months Principal, Interest, Taxes, & Insurance) when qualifying for 100% financing.

If you have two houses that are identical and one is 30 years old that needs work and the other is 40 yrs. old house that was just remodeled then the 40 yr. old has less depreciation.

. :-)Seriously though, I would consult an attorney, and verify what we all suspect (that you aren't breaking any laws unless you keep mailing after a homeowner requests that you stop).

I'd call their academic advisor at the college to verify any of their claims.