There are several law firms that you will make your offer to and once the law firm has looked at your offer, (sealed bid) if accepted you may own the deed. 

Even if he had done similar homes before, every site is unique and when an architect seals a drawing he takes on liability for the safety of its occupants, which alone comes at a price.  

At least, you will probably be required to seal around the pipe fairly well.If you have to put a door in the fire-rated wall, it needs to be a fire-rated door - usually either solid wood or metal.  

What is the best product for sealing afterwards?

It will make it look better and you would be surprised at how many times I come across a deck or steps that are not sealed or properly maintained. 

I really appreciate all of the contributors and look forward to learning more and breaking the seal on my first truly diligenced deal.Thanks again for all you contributions and please don't hesitate to count me in on your list of colleagues!  

To cover wood that is only black with smoke (NOT BURNED), You need to seal it.

It hasn't been sealed and polished well.

Unfortunately, even without the unexpected overruns, I suspect that your fate on this deal was sealed the day you closed escrow.

Then I don't seal it, I just tuck the flap in.