There are normally major issues with the property that will need to be fixed and shown to the code enforcement officer so he can check that the property is completely up to code and habitable 

I spoke with my local zoning office to ask about converting my basement.

Hi Adam, its stated that one should not trespass on the pre or foreclosed property or trespass at all, but to get ahead of the big fishes on a great deal you could be polite and go door to door, this would put you ahead of other bidders since you know what needs fixing. 

I've seen a lot of people get the inspections back and not accepted by a VA loan officer.

From talking to my loan officer, it's just not looking good for an FHA loan.

Bonus if their office is in or near Pasadena. 

Are there any stairwell/fire codes for building a room/ above a garage in a SOG side by side condominium, if i were to put a stairwell inside of the living space, entering off of a landing above the garage where the opening of a bedroom or office would be?

They have offices in Maine, but my friend works for them in New Hampshire.https://www.revisionenergy.com/solar-power-for-you...Look at the typical water heating costs table and see if those numbers agree with what you've been paying. 

Maybe I could find out at the county clerks office. 

Sure, I did get some experience with mailing and calls, but now I know to go to the clerk's office with a list of properties and omit any that are currently bank owned, but not yet foreclosed/for sale.