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.

Central heat and air, brand new AC units.Everything is brand new except the roof.

If you wish to avoid judgement and possible garnishment of wages, you must release possession of the home to us or one of our representatives in the next 48 hours.

Whatever you are paying them, grade that against what pitfalls/money pits they may help you avoid; it may very well be worth the investment.

If you end up with a definite move date, avoid short sales and REOs.