So, he lied somewhere.If he lied to the Uncle Sam, he committed tax fraud, and a tax lien could be placed on whatever property you purchase.

Not that this couldn’t have happened with agents involved, wire fraud is unfortunately common in the industry, but an experienced agent would have been much less likely to set somebody up with a fake title company and have them wire $10k to complete strangers across the country without looking into them more.

If she files for bankruptcy, you want to hire a bankruptcy attorney to represent you and have them file a motion of fraud against her unless she states in her filing that she stole the appliances.

Even if the homes were identical at the outset, one has experienced wear and tear and the other hasn't.This would still be the case if the home "appreciated" in real terms due to increased demand for real estate in that area.

Hmmm,  fraud comes to mind. 

You could sell your current home, buy an identical neighboring house while only borrowing $95k at 2-3% higher (call it $200/mo).

Plus, if you tell people you are buying their property you are lying (fraud) and can be sued.

I would probably contact a local attorney, but once closing occurs, unless there’s fraud or intentional coverup, it’s usually on the buyer.

Don't lie on your application - that could construe as fraud, and if the bank doesn't offer funds for new purchase they could close on you.

Applicant fraud is at an all-time high.