But in 2014, Scranton changed the ordinance to require annual safety inspections.

@Darnell Griggs - We have developed relationships with money lenders who will do 90/10 loans and fund the rehab.Definately not banks... too much overhead, and they don't react quickly enough, plus there is a lot of overhead fees for things like appraisals, inspections, flood inspections, etc.

Go back and read the first sentence after this stated question.)3 - Will they make all your offers before you inspect the property?

This is where inspections and appraisals can be very helpful.

I am thinking of just going to look at it asap and if it meets a preliminary overview putting in an offer asap and using the inspection period to see if I get out of the offer--this market is pretty big so I don't think backing out will hurt my reputation.

The county tax assessor doesn't inspect individual properties and likely has never even seen this house or have any idea what condition it's in. 

@PING CUINo usually there will be an inspection or "weasel" clause so that they are not on the hook for anything

Google Gibbs Surette Inspect and you'll find his contact info.  

The pro is that you typically can pay a lot less because you are dealing with shady characters who aren't going pay tax on it possibly/often illegal aliens, unlicensed contractors, skipping inspections, etc.

Some underwriters will require you evidence the unit is vacated by ordering the appraiser back out to inspect and confirm while others will not, I've had both types of underwriters.