Strange too since the outlets weren't grounded.

4- how to find or fix the problem with a dead outlet, reverse neutral, missing ground?

I'm sure everything will turn out. Let

Let's look at the context of the time it takes to do a rehab yourself vs. hiring out. Let's

Two pronged outlet's STILL, needs a Breaker Box update, HVAC, mold in one area, that is what they saw on first inspection. 

I took back the thinner Chinese stuff as it would not hold together.The kitchen area is a vinyl like allure that was 99c/sq ft from Bargain Outlet but also slightly heavier gauge than the allure.Next time I'll just get it from Home Depot & have them install it as I do with all the carpeting whole house $37.

Right next to it there is a "Bargain Outlet" store.

I'm a huge real estate nerd, and this is my outlet and way to pay it forward.  

Most of these units under permit will require electric service upgrades and rewiring, 20 amp gfi's new outlets/switches, interconnected smoke/carbon detectors ect which leads to opening a lot of walls, if these are plaster figure all new drywall.

The living area of the basement has lights, dry wall, paint, electric outlets, etc.