It does not need to be seasoned, you can do it about 3 weeks before closing to safely have it documented in time for your clear to close and TRID timing. 

We have given USAA everything they've asked for including all paperwork, police reports, contractor's estimates and other supporting documentation (e.g. ownership of stolen appliances).

this document talks about it:I think 4-B-5 would be a good place to start.https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/huddoc?

The bad stove top burners and outlet plate were already bad when we moved in (documented). 

The only way you'd get a real answer is to go thru the short sale process again.....listed property, executed sales contract, short sale package along with financials submitted by the owner, etc.  

All contractors must provide before pictures when submitting bids.

So do I sign up with the state as a merchant and submit refund returns for all of the sales taxes I put into my properties?

The document can be found under "Tools" - "File Place" and a screenshot is below for ease of navigating to the proper document.

I pulled the comps of homes for sale from the comps that were submitted to the bank when I purchased the home.

I'm sure as I submit more offers, i'll get used to this feeling.