I might be a little vague here, but from my understanding, Escrow officer pulls Preliminary Title Report to make sure there are no liens or encumbrances (unpaid taxes) that both parties are not aware of.

However, because of my credit score which is shockingly 540, I have been unable to get approved for ANY apartment as of now.

(I'm owner occupant) I was shocked at the increase in only a few months. 

We're in the same business, same customers, same goal....so I'm shocked to hear you say that.Now if you're cold calling or emailing me wanting me to feed you business, that's another story. 

It was shocking, but it wasn’t surprising.

You’d be shocked by how little actual screening many PMC’s do!

I just received a quote from Geico and was shocked that they quoted me $6,065 for a 12-month policy, is this particularly high or is it a fairly standard insurance cost for a duplex?

In Anaheims defense you can draw up a speculation outline of what you want and take it to the counter and they will do a preliminary assessment for no charge.

@Rob Gaukel and I have developed a preliminary plan and set a date for our first meeting. 

You’d be shocked by how little actual screening many PMC’s do!