HVAC prefers to vent out the side of the house on gas furnaces, as stated, to prevent future issues due to problems caused by failing chimneys (they fall apart here, and we have earthquakes).I'm amazed you got a quote for $2000 for a chimney rebuilt.

I have other attys. that make it clear they want you to call them and won't charge you b/c they'd rather you call and prevent a problem.

I am at all costs trying to prevent this.

They have systems in place that prevent loss of rent from vacancies and repair.

This will prevent you from getting flooded with calls and also keep you busy during the month. 2a.

It does however, give me pause to think about how to prevent such attacks.

Lender licenses are state specific, so not knowing what state the subject property is located prevents a lender who can lend in that state from understanding this might be a deal for them.

Fence off the back of the property and prevent any access from alley.

In all likelihood, you will have to close twice, and there could be a deed restriction preventing you from selling or encumbering for more that 20% over what you paid for 30-90 days.

We often pull our city gutters out, fill the holes with brick/cement to prevent rats, etc. and re=rout the gutter).