I don't want to do anything that may harm the seller or their credit.What situations should I use this tactic?

They are either new, like you, not local, or taking advantage of you.I always take the approach that, if you have no money committed to the deal, there is no harm in doing a handshake agreement.  

AFAIK, simple incompetence or dereliction of duty isn't cause for removal, the partner in question has to be actively trying to harm the partnership.2) Generally speaking, you can't legitimately negotiate a deal that's self-serving or self-dealing, where one partner does very well at the expense of the others.

oh, house, you can live in comfortably, shelter from rain, cold and other harms away.

In order to place that claim, they would have to show harm.

If she opposes it, it could likely cause harm to your succes and your marriage.

I did not put her under contract because I do not want to harm her in any way if this is not a deal that can get done.

I am with everyone else that for the most part just chalk it up to experience.As far as the short notice goes big time uphill battle on that, the time and heartache (if not the actual costs as well) isn't worth it.For the damages if you have the guys phone and email and possibly a forwarding address there isn't any harm in sending a list of repairs and the costs he owes you.  

Another governmental brain fart that would do more harm than good.Please sign the petition to let your congress representative know this is vital to get your vote and support.1031 Petition Letter

If anything comes of substance from that I'll add it to the thread.