We needed to learn the various areas and their markets, which building and planning depts. were good to work with, and which to avoid (there's a lot of coastal area, which means lots of red tape before building in some of those areas), plus the real estate market.

And then you'll be held to that.But again, it sounds like you're new to this, which means you're probably not ready to deal with all the aspects of selling a house (dealing with agents/buyers/showings, negotiation, contracts, coordinating inspections/appraisals, dealing with closings, etc), and you certainly don't want to leave this all up to the buyer's agent.So, find a great listing agent to handle all this for you...

This process can be avoided with proper estate planning.

Additionally, certain legal aspects are different.

Be up front with everyone involved to avoid an unpleasant surprise at closing.

@Bryan A.I called the county permits dept. and they told me they would never find out about the unpermitted line (unless someone gave them the address), so that it was more my own issue than theirs...I was planning to have the house repiped with PEX to avoid another slab leak (apparently there was one in the past).

She was flexible, friendly, and provided excellent customer service.Ultimately, I believe that customer service will always pay for itself through referrals.For those of you using a PM in the Seattle/Tacoma WA area, message me offline and I'll give you more info so you know who to avoid.

I've found regular small maintenance can avoid bigger (& costlier) issues down the road.

If these are pre-owned condos - try for owner financing and avoid banks, qualifying etc.

(not implying that you're not.)I could work with the original deed holder if I can't find another way, but he's a little difficult so I'm trying to avoid him.