Also, the seller may be required to provide documentation of the cost of improvements to justify the increase in price.

It is practically impossible for heating pipes to freeze so long as the boiler is firing and the circulator running.

That is providing the existing wiring is sound.In PA there is no licensure for electricians, however there is a Home Improvement Contractor license and insurance that should be carried.

Our RE agent has given us comps that show our house should sit about $140k now with the improvements that we have put into it.

This is a capital improvement, and as such it is depreciated.

And what are your thoughts on this practice?

He said it would ensure the work can be done and I can be protected.Expense Numbers:$184,000 Purchase price, comps for only a 4 BR SFH excluding carriage house and garage are $245,000$140,000 Repairs/improvements, including addition of a 2nd floor to the carriage house.

If you call they have good customer service and helpful.2nd after you finish your courses go here http://www.dre.ca.gov/ and fill out your application so you can get your test date.3rd after your application is approved go here http://www.retrainersca.com/ these guys have THE BEST study courses for your exam they also have apps for your phone for practice test.Good luck!

@Andrew Fidler -- if this is in Ohio, check out page 130 of "Modern Real Estate Practice in Ohio" for a description of various easements, if you do not already have one you may be able to get one out of necessity.  

Also, if you're actively licensed and practicing in any way, shape, or form, you're acting as a real estate agent.I had no idea of this rule and makes me want to go back and re-read the TREC Rules line by line again.