It isn't reasonable to force the applicant to pay twice because you decided to change your application screening process. 

I've been doing quite a bit of research over the last couple weeks and have decided on an area I think has great potential for my first purchase :) I'm not really sure where to go from there, if I need to looking into pre-approvals, find a lender.. or whatever else might be the next step!

However, the owner has made professional additions such as a 500+ square feet family room and a 500 square feet deck, which greatly enhance its value.

Will they allow a loan assumption as the new deed owner? 

Who knows, but the opportunity to keep a $10k non-refundable deposit when your partner decides not to fund is a slimy business model in my view.Separately, I had a very friendly conversation with one of their reps some time ago and we discussed pricing.

We have already talked to the owner and insists that we have to pay for both tub spout repairs.

That's often because you don't really get to see nationwide stats very often and there are few individual investors who invest across multiple states it seems.Here are a few consideration to help you decide where to invest:Population GrowthJob GrowthLandlord friendly statesAffordability gap, average income vs median sales price.Some people also say look at where town will grow and invest in the path of progress.Good luck and I wish you unlimited cash flow and appreciation.

You need to pay it even if you didn't receive it from the previous owner.

Once you get the property most you won't be able to resell for at least a year because the new owner will want/need title insurance and that likely won't be possible as title companies recognize the risks with the whole tax sale process.

One of my property managers does not post a PDF copy of the lease with the tenant on my owner portal.