Not only are you coming off as negative and angry, what you are posting is completely false....

Student loan debt only reflects negatively if the proper steps to maintain it aren't done.

I just want you all to know how much I appreciate you taking the time to speak with me, a little information from you goes such a long way for a newbie and I already feel welcome here!

I haven't researched Victoria or Chase City at all so I can't speak to those.I am in the MBA at VCU and we just had a class on the economic environment in small towns across Virginia (South Boston and Emporia specifically were mentioned) having a terrible effect on the housing demand in those areas. 

@Theresa Allison I can't speak for every lender here but in general there will always be some sort of documentation needed now. 

The engineers' opinion initially should speak to the severity of the issue.I'd break down an engineering engagement into 2 parts:First would be an initial visit and rendering an opinion on the severity and possible approaches in design to remedy.2nd would be the actual design and cost opinion(s) to remedy.If you're pretty serious about the house, I think if you pay the $250-500 that I think you'd likely need to do the first, that would be a GREAT investment more than likely from what you're describing. 

Certainly feel free to speak with your lender and see what is possible. 

I’m speaking strictly for plumbing.

@Kelly Ellis, Every deal is going to speak for itself. 

If you do not have MLS access, I would speak to a trusted real estate agent and see what the DOM and price /Sq Ft is for similar homes in that area.