And moreover, my father is eager to be involved.That said, it's my first deal, and naturally, I'm anxious about the outcome.

Brokers are trying to close deals and make both sides happy (lender and borrower) so this is completely natural and demonstrates competing motivations.

I have a question about the seemingly subjective nature of appraisals.

Send all mail certified.

Also, I did a bit of research and there seems to be less natural disasters there vs other big cities in Tx like Houston and Dallas, correct me if I'm wrong. 

All of the items he listed seems to be cosmetic in nature nothing that can't be corrected.. 

I would like to send one more letter via certified mail asking for the $100 and saying if I don't receive it by a certain date, I would have to take it to small claims court.

If no response still,then will send a certified letter and termination email. 

Prices have been tough for a few years now, and I think you'd be better with some other investment choices.At the moment, I like foreign ETFs and natural resource funds (Europe, Asian Mid Cap, and Emerging Market).

They both have solid roofs, electric to the pole and city water as well as natural gas.