It is hard to compare, but I guess that is what we are doing in this form. 

It's possible the tenant is better at this sort of work than both of us but you never really know...If I were in your shoes, I'd have a licensed contractor do plumbing and electrical but that will cost you more.I guess it comes down to whether or not you want to pay more or take a chance the tenant is doing it correctly, in which case you can simply be happy that the tenant is happy and also that he's saving you $, at least in the short run.

I guess by his tone his sounded really desperate, but that's a great point on the foreclosure...lots of time till that.

Unfortunately, I don't know you are your abilities so I can't help much there.Without seeing it, my guess is that it would take some work and additional money.

I guess we will see at closing.

Not every year) I guess it would depend on your area and how the homes are assessed. 

I'm guessing a local lender has seen this sort of property before and would know exactly how it is handled.

I'm guessing around $10-$15k.

I've never looked for properties via finding the good property managers first, but I guess you can do that?

Best of all, being able to set my family up with having a solid foundation to find success in this world as well.But it all starts here, I guess.