sub too wrap lease option etc.. is a fine method but in my mind only to be used by very financially capable folks.. not folks that are trying to get rich on OPM and no credit.. and in some states the persona with the lease option can hole up and judge may make the lessee do a foreclosure giving the lessor a right to cure..   

You don’t get your info from Zillow.....you get it from your county records....see if an LP has been filed, even a Final Judgment, how many mtgs, etc. 

So the nightmare scenario is a huge set of fines rendered long after he's gone & I have no leverage to get recouped.Any advice on how to get the HOA to meet a deadline for a fine decision when there is nothing in the bylaws compelling them to?

Go over the place with a fine-tooth comb.

Scour those contracts with a fine-tooth comb. 

And yes Michael, you're right, I'll review her window concerns before making a final decision on that one.

Hey all, I wanted to give a final update that we were able to get the sellers to let us out if the contract to purchase, so on to the next deal!

Going into a Finance-related field certainly fits both those. 

I have a finance degree and I'd say that has been beneficial for me although I don't work in the field. 

I would recommend doing that before making a final decision.