Wording your post properly can definitely change the image of what you're listing in the market place.

A few things we cannot believe: 1) That we are acquiring a duplex in Seattle proper for $220k.  

He's worth his weight in gold.  

If dealt properly, this could be a win-win situation for both tenant and owner.

The sewer line was apparently not built to code in the first place, but the drain line is starting to collapse under the weight of the neighbor's cars (they park mainly in the driveway but also in their yard directly on top of the sewer line).

Old quitclaim deeds piled on a contract forfeiture with 3 old land contracts not conveyed properly where one or more prior parties are now deceased.  

If your outlets are properly boxed I believe the type of wiring I have is acceptable, although not ideal. 

I don't know of any old house specific problems if it's installed properly. 

It just tends to be more, smaller units that will have more turnover but still great cash flow if managed properly. 

The key to success is properly analyzing a particular market and then implementing the proper strategy for that market.