So if the county code states that fuse boxes have to adhere to X" then that's what we need to be done.Now, combing through county codes or even calling the county to find out if there is some code for this might be next to impossible. 

For most of my projects, the full closure isn't that long and it's impossible to predict, so I gave up on getting a full closure permit. 

And, as much as I would love to help you out and give you all this advice, it's impossible for me to do that in a post. 

Actually collecting any money beyond the amount of their deposit, assuming your state codes allow,  is usually impossible.  

If I do either of these, will it be difficult (or impossible) to use these funds as a down payment on the next property?

That would not be an impossibly difficult DIY job if you ever get the first floor empty.But...in a structure like that you're probably also losing a LOT of heat out of the basement/letting a lot of cold air into the building's thermal envelope through an uninsulated rim joist.

Seriously, If you have internet and can read, chances are you probably don't need oneunfortunately, it is often impossible to avoid them as this parasitic cartel is unfortunately deeply ingrained into the system, but you can maybe save half the commission.Anyone with average intelligence can go on internet and figure out what’s a property worth.

Account Closed have already given you a great run-down.While your husband's physical disability won't have any weight on whether or not he qualifies as a 'real estate professional', you guys taking the position that he is a real estate professional while only having two investment properties that are being managed by a third-party property manager may raise a few eyebrows at the IRS.Not impossible, however it is improbable. 

My landlord became my friend early on and when his age and failing health made it impossible for him to handle his properties any more he talked his daughters into selling it to me via a land contract.

some of this depends on the cycle we are in as well. trying to raise money in 09 to 2012 was nearly impossible ( at least for me).. as things have gotten better its gotten easier.