If the lien is old enough that could certainly change the way you approach things... in these parts that lien would expire 10 years and 1 day from last record date, and if not re-filed you would be in the clear.

What if I write him a check to cover legal fees, call it EMD, get a copy of check to title company, and file an affidavit of equitable interest and require the EMD back if he fails to go through with the sale after probate? 

The yearly maintenance expenses plus the loss of equity were in the red and she’s on social security.

You do not need the property to be occupied but the lease would need to be executed - meaning, signed and dated and the security deposit already in your bank.Feel free to ask anything else additional if you need. 

Eviction is expensive, and if she's doing a bad job with the paint, maybe her security deposit will cover most of the cost of repainting the house if you let her complete the lease?

You can find out boatloads when you have a conversation in person and are present to secure the property.As for the lock... the major brands all offer "keyless entry locks".

They will probably want to know about the fire anyways.You might need to file a claim with your insurance agent and let the agents fight it out. 

Looking for security system recommendations for a 35 unit apartment building in downtown KC.

Think of all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

You will have to get the property appraised at the time of distribution to determine it's value and the amount of distribution will be taxable event unless you are taking distribution from Roth and have met the requirements. 2) Non-recourse lending means that the borrower does not provide personal guarantee for the loan, the underlying asset is the only security for the loan.3) You can contribute into an IRA independently of your 401k contributions, assuming you are eligible based on your income.4) If you set up truly self-directed Solo 401k plan you can invest into virtually anything except collectibles and any transactions involving disqualified person.