Last thing I would want is to pay this Seller his money only to find out down the road that I don't have clear title, but if I knew for a fact that signing at the embassy/consulate wasn't needed, that would definitely simplify things a little bit.Aside from that, though, like I mentioned above, the other issue I'm dealing with is that when closing docs were already sent to the Seller (with a pre-paid return courier label) he claimed that he didn't receive them, despite tracking info indicating otherwise. 

@Luke H.I've had this discussion with my CA PM a couple of times and he has indicated to me (as noted various times above) that after 7 years it's going to take something pretty egregious to justify withholding deposit money.

They’re responsible to make sure it arrives by xx:xx on the first as indicated in your lease.

This indicates that the property owner is an investor and owns their property free and clear.

The fact they are complaining online might be an indication the property manager dealt with them properly so be sure to ask the manager for their side of the story.7.

One leading indicator of a housing crash is loan modification and those have actually been shrinking over the last month or so.  

The Urban Institute indicates it’s important to note that borrowers experiencing financial hardship have the right to request forbearance.

If it is only $250 or if you have not factored in property management into your cashflow I would offer less money.Of course no one has a crystal ball regarding the future, but if history is any indicator, things will be stable here in Iowa.

I would also like to hear individual opinions on what landlords are looking for on applications to indicate a bad or a good tenant?

@Ann NguyenYour prior posts indicate that you have interest in investing in a market outside of California and possibly have interest in setting up trusts.You should work with a professional that is comfortable this.Good luck in your search!