The damage seems truly small, so I intend to fill the cracks, let it dry, and carry on.Here's my newbie question: what do I seal it with?

But, what I learned was how to dry out a basement, repair a sprinkler system and winterize it, and what kind of effort it takes to do all of that.

Dry, solid structure, and good ceiling height has made me really look into it.

The non invasive scan is only going to tell us that there is an anomaly there (which we already know) but not tell us why there is an anomaly and what really is there (septic, oil or dry well).

Unlike stoves and fridges, a washing or drying machine can be easily abused and require more maintenance.

If you are looking to buy and hold and seek positive cash flow in decent to good neighborhoods, the market is drying up.

Poking around every single house in the city splitting hairs or knowing and working with the best and most connected people in the game?

Another question I have is we are finding deals but we do not know if we should place an offer then try and secure lending or should we have some type of DU stamp or pre approval prior to making an offer to avoid being left high and dry with out lending?

Think of it like your mechanic or your hair person.  

We will when the word of mouth market dries up.