And finally, are they obligated to disclose any back dues to 3rd parties or are we to bid on the blind.  

That final question all depends on how much you can afford per month.

The only time I typically see permits checked during a closing is by the title company when they run a lien search, and that's just to confirm there are no open permits that have not been closed out by a final inspection.Also, many interior renovations do not even require a permit (plumbing, electrical, windows, and structural changes certainly do, but not cosmetic stuff such as flooring, cabinets, countertops, painting, light fixtures, etc).My point being, refinancing may be a viable option (it sounds like you were already thinking along those lines).

Hello, I've been following this website for a while and now decided to finally join.

An FHA inspector has to approve all work based on the scope for you to get final payment.5.) all code work has to be addressed first followed by cosmeticMy best advice is for you to call your 203k rep & get this all worked out.

I finally googled how to get spray paint out of carpet and watched a dozen you tube videos.

Today was supposed to be the final walk through, and tomorrow was the closing date.

Yes, keep the group informed of the final results.From Nancy

They finally called me back, but after I called several times.

Finally we just drove around town and wrote down addresses we were interested in.