He has some experience in construction, and he explained:- Our properties flood easily (minor but our sump pumps do turn on whenever it rains hard) due to the area being a high water line area - hence why everyone in the area has a sump pump.- This big building will go up (& they're building a basement too) - and it will pump all the water out to the surrounding properties whenever it rains.

Judgement, garnishment...that's going no where.I value my time at $300 per hour... so over the course of the next few months if you have 6-8 hours involved in chasing this money you will be close to breaking even..and that's before attorney fees.

It sounds like you need a rain diverter over the front door on the roof.

I know how many mistakes I have made here so no judgement please just advice and answer to the late fee question!

I don't have a 100% rule, but if there are multiple judgements for collections on there it's almost certainly going to be a no. 

My understanding is that they could only file a judgement against the prior owner for any oustanding amount not recouped? 

This is really poor judgement on your part .

CA OR and WA have very specific laws as it relates to what you can and cannot do with a homeowner in foreclosure you should read those before you do anything.. they have severe penalties for violators..Once you figure what you can and cannot do legally.1. as Wayne above state Credit is trashed. your bringing no value there In West coast Purchase Money Deed of trust foreclosure  credit is trashed and bank has no right for a deficiency judgement. 2. 

I do not mean to rain on your parade but honetly $100K or more is serious money.

In MD you have legal title the moment you get a judgement.