Often times if it was built as a garage the building department will not let you transition it into a carport.

I had to find a fire department approval from 1939, and they couldn't find it, and someone on line told me to come back as it's probably a misfiling, as those files weren't computerized.

I know it sounds like I'm splitting hairs but some banks write HELOCs in their residential department....which won't write Investment Properties.

@Robert Comstock  Check with your local Planning department depending on where the property is located. 

:Assigning purchase and sale agreements on a one-off basis with the original intent to close does not violate the law but its specifically mentioned if you do it 8 times you need to be a broker Again, we all would like to see this verbiage from the CA department of real estate you claim you have.My research on the subject direct from the CA DRE states: “Without a license, an individual cannot receive compensation for the performance of any of the acts defined as being within the purview of a licensed broker or salesperson.

I am great at running my business but admittedly weak in the real estate department but I am working on changing that!

In the City of Atlanta it would usually be the Atlanta Police Department. 

Call the local building department and ask them how to check on your contractor. 

I agree, the water department, and waste management are the best resource for the most accurate information.

I struggle in the lead generation department.