@Mark Ferguson is an expert in this area. 

Scott The Book on Flipping Houses,The Book on Estimating ReHab Costshttp://www.biggerpockets.com/flippingbookTo find out about an area go to IREM.org search for ARM certified property managers.

Assuming you are considered the "expert" I would just make part of the contract "It as my sole discretion when we sell" based on the best market timing. 

I could go max out my friends/family/crowdfunding options, but that probably wouldn't get me much beyond 20-30%...Anyhow, let me know if I'm missing something in terms of a strategy that might appeal to this seller.Thanks,-Orion HI Orion,As long as the roofer will give you a roof cert showing it will "certify," for now that will be sufficient but usually the roof is not an issue unless it is announce via written statements on the appraisal or  disclosed by the seller through the seller disclosure statement.As for the decking unless its visibly dry rotted with an indication of extreme termite damage that might have spread to the structure of the home you should be fine with a bit of deck damage but it depends on the extent you're referring to.When you refer to the siding, how much damage are you talking about to the siding?

I always tell folks that if they have the money to invest they can afford expert advice locally, I'm sure there are attorneys and CPAs in town. :)  

Northeast of Los Angeles.My investment career wasn’t looking so hot.However, rattled as I was, I was an avid fan/reader of Warren Buffett (still am as a matter of fact).I was confident that times of panic were the best times to look for golden opportunities.Ok, I was fairly confident.If I would’ve been REALLY confident, I would have bought up everything I could get my hands on.Instead, I stayed the course and stood by my plan.I kept contributing to my IRA and 401k, and began looking for another property to purchase with the intent of living in it while stationed in the area and renting it out when I moved.Now, looking back, I realize that I made another rookie mistake.When searching for the property, I did not educate myself and become an expert in my new market.Granted, it’s a little more difficult for military members to accomplish this as we only get about 8 – 10 days to find a place to live.However, I could have started the process from Ohio.Anyways, for those that know the area, I found a foreclosure in a great neighborhood west of highway-14 in Lancaster, CA about 40 minutes for base.The previous owners had purchased the property at the peak of the market for ~$450k.It was now being listed at $195k.If I were in their shoes, I think I would have taken the hit too and walked.Well, probably not due to my security clearance, but I digress.

We understand this this a blog community and we are not seeking any legal advice here but if there are legal experts that can offer opinions it will be greatly appreciated.

@Victoria Bonhomme   Not an expert on that market by any means other than I spent a few winters there before the GFC and made a few offers to buy properties..

Your expert opinions are SO appreciated.

Ypr best bet is Rick Harmon probate Calif expert