But it does vary by municipality.

It is interesting to see the varying viewpoints on this subject and food for thought.Based on everything I have read in these responses, what I have learnt is that (a) our growing population should put a natural floor on home prices to reflect replacement cost minus depreciation and (b) if you can buy at deep discounts, you should do it because any future depreciation should be offset by the discount.My own decision based on all this is to perhaps continue with my flip business because it gives me returns similar to a good buy-and-hold property while keeping my cash free from any long-term committments in case the economy weakens.

Get a loan officer you feel comfortable with and who you trust - they can help you with pre approvals, situations etc Unless you plan on locking that day - whats the point as not only do rates change everyday (sometimes more than once) They can tell you anything...honestly most LO's left in the biz are going to try and help you...better to have a trusted advisor.....rates especially non fha loans are like chinese arithmetic these days - the price adjustments can vary greatly.

...Am wondering how the number of points of Influence is determined for each posting: the number seems to vary....

The pricing will vary based on the asset price bands, with the deepest discount and inventory volume belonging to the assets under 125k in value.

Especially if they think you don't actually know how to do these things and can then further drive up the costs.Roselle's housing stock is widely varied in age.  

After speaking with my CPA, he recommended it for tax benefits to avoid paying some taxes such as Medicaid/Self Employment taxes...all cases vary.

Just my preference, you mileage may vary...........

Laws vary from one state to another so check out the Civil Code in your state before you do anything.

The short answer to question 1 is "no," but the tax lien foreclosure process varies state-to-state.