A person buying one vacant lot that a residence could be built (in the event there is no zonning restrictions) that would be a loan covered under the SA.Best way to avoid the pit falls is simply have the loan originated, processed and closed under a licensee, make sure they stamp/seal the contract and you're kinda home free.....if they pay it, you still have many other issues, but most are on the mortgage broker.

Remove the rest of the brick fireplace and just seal up the wall so there is no more fireplace?

Replace carpeting and pads, clean and seal the subfloor too with the odor/stain blocker.Good luck. 

Also, I was always under the impression, that if you paint over wood work, it sealed any lead paint that maybe present.

@Will Barnard I know i late to the party, but huge congratulations on finally getting this one sign, sealed and delivered.

By painting over it, you are sealing it.

Appraiser to address if this is a possible code violation in more detail and if window can be opened or is it sealed.

Are your cleanout and man covers properly sealed?

The return air plenums are clean and sealed).  

@Bobby Esposito before removing and replacing the ceiling I would figure out where the mice are coming in and seal them off from the outside and set boxes outside to trap any looking to get in.