I would definitely contact a local civil engineer or environmental engineering firm. 

You can reach out to your local property tax people and they can explain it in more detail.  

I want to throw this out to the community to see if anyone would have some local expertise to know if market conditions should warrant a request for seller credit or break the contract. 

First, go to your local REI meetups.

So I thought of finding investors that would help me buy local rental properties through a 501C3 so they get a deduction and then I can manage it as a charitable contribution or hire another PM and they get a charitable deduction.

Consider your long-term plans and local zoning regulations carefully to make an informed decision.Good luck!

Educate yourself on the local market, network with other investors and agents, and always have a solid plan in place before making any investments.

Although I have knowledge and experience in my local market, I am most interested in some out-of-state options as I like those opportunities better than what I have locally but know little about where to begin evaluating those markets and the pros and cons of the different states.

Valid complaint considering the material facts.The counterargument from the company appears to be that this transaction is similar to getting a referral from your local dentist, and that they are not responsible.

:)   Perhaps you'll have to work WITH a local Roofer to replace your roof (or do repairs), then you'll save $ and have an Invoice showing it was done, for whichever Ins Co you are with.