Then your choice is probably pay it and/or file a request to appeal to the Board of County Commissioners or whoever has the authority to waive. 

Hi Berry and welcome to the ride.....don't worry about being 36, you have plenty of time :-)Just take it slow and smart, don't feel the need to rush....it will get you in trouble and now is the worst time to buy anyway (IMHO).

As rental price increases are a much more secure stat right now.I've talked with a local house hacking aficionado here, very smart (thanks @Brad Hammond!)

@Adonis Eugene Yancey, good choice on not calling current owners.  

But you would be converting passive income to self employed income which as a general rule isn't smart/optimal, but there are scenarios which may make sense. 

@Derek Smith you’re very smart to let their check clear the bank and confirm with the bank before refunding anything.

It is closer to home than Florida which is choice #2, although also very humid.

I think just not knowing where to start.. and as much as I’m trying to teach myself .. not knowing what’s a smart move or not  

Worse yet, since these categories constantly change, if you don't go in and update your choice every 3 months, you only get the flat 1% cashback. 

My partner was a roof and truss designer and hated flat roofs.Tarps are a useless choice as a long term solution to a leak.