Each individual needs to assess their own ability to handle costs over that time frame when cash flow may dry up.

I have started soil tests on 12 lots costing me a total of $5340 for the permits.

The soil here was clay so the digging even with excavators where they could use one was challenging. 

We are attempting to get an eviction date, but could not pass a lead paint inspection because the weather is so cold in Cleveland that the paint will not dry.

There are a lot of options for all in one stacks (washer dryer) or a single wash/dry machine as well as small size (18") dishwashers.Don't skimp on these sorts of amenities.

They wouldn't have any skin in the game and could just walk away and leave you high and dry if things go wrong with the property.

If the mold is caused by a leaking pipe or water getting in from outside, then you should hire a contractor to stop that intrusion immediately, then dry out the home and remediate the mold at your expense.I also recommend reading and sharing the EPA Mold Guide.

Just the other day I saw someone had used black sheet rock screws in the hangers on a brand new deck (non-permitted obviously, and not a single lag or any flashing on the ledger board, and they painted it immediately before the pressure treated lumber had even dried out so that’s going to peal in the first year, at about the same time that those sheetrock screws start to rust lol). 

In your new hole, supplant with a high quality mulch soil mix.

My thought is FLA is sandy soil and you simply dont have as much problem as other areas.. its very cheap insurance for a buyer.. and now a days 10 to 20k to replace the line is kind of the going rate..