Noticed the same thing myself over the years.

Have you noticed any patterns about what redeems versus goes through title process?

Sub-metering is another issue altogether depending on how common it is in your area and the expense of doing it.

My fiance and I noticed billions of run-down properties in each location.  

Longer notice and good photos are to credit for that.If we are doing a full remodel flooring,fixtures,paint,cabinets and appliances. 

so you didn't have a set date to move out from your current place before you signed a lease to move into a new place. that's the overall problem according to your thread. its always best to have everything in writing beforehand. some landlords want a 30 day notice (if you're on a month to month lease then that's what they generally get) to move out. some landlords ask for a 60 day notice to move out.

I’ve been informed that the FHA loan is going to be the best route and most commonly used however I did hear of a first time homebuyers incentive grant somewhere?

Use common sense and sharpen your pencil.

Besides the deed with vendor's lien, note, and deed of trust, I have 40-60 pages of notices and disclosures.This is just a taster, so I'd say find a local club and people who have already done this.

However, some states only assess the value of the home upon the sale or refinancing of the property.Clayton county confirmed with me that if they did miss an addition to a property, they can't go back and charge you for it but moving forward, once it is re-assessed by an appraiser the new property sqft would be recorded by the county and a new property tax will reflect moving forward.Clayton County Tax Assessors Info/ Tel#: https://www.claytoncountyga.gov/government/tax-***...You can also contact your local government appraiser and or find notice of assessment information: claytoncountyga.gov > tax accessor (gov tab) > link > assessment > current  year > local appraiser / notice of assessment info.To answer your question no the county cannot go after the buyer for back taxes - they can only re-adjust and apply the appropriate taxes moving forward.