The insurer I contacted told me I need a social security number to be insured (which I have not, living in France).

@Jay Hinrichs is absolutely right.I am a newbie and a lowly service plumber, but once upon a time I worked in sales, and I would have to say that my sales training has definitely helped when dealing with owners.Also I would have to say the owner seems on guard.

PNC secured card is excellent start, put $250 - $500 on and DONT use the card. in 3 - 6 months apply for cap 1 card.additionally figure out if you belong to any credit union, they will accept a letter of explanation in regards to the BK and give a lot more credit than the big banks / card companies.With the knowledge i have from working at a large bank I have helped a couple family and friends go from a bk to a very high 700 score in two years so if you have any other questions pm me.I am not claiming to be an expert but have gone through this twice with people very close to me and they are both in incredible credit standings now.Regards,rob

WOULD A 5 YEAR BALLOON BE WISE FOR THE SELLER WHO IS RETIRED AND HAS NO OTHER INCOME EXCEPT SOCIAL SECURITY?

This has a few advantages including much less cash out-of-pocket, no need to secure financing, etc..My question is:  if the seller is willing to let you take over their loan, what are the analytics to generate the total offer you make them?  

If you go big enough, going to a C corp may become better.An S corp has quarterly tax filing requirements, files its own tax returnThe owner needs to take a salary (and pay social security & medicare tax), etc. 

Not to mention the challenge banks face with cyber security.

Back during my days in the navy, financial troubles was a ticket to loosing one's security clearance and bankruptcy could possibly mean a discharge.

Her behavior made us decide to offer her the entire security deposit back if she and her family would vacate the premises by the weekend and find a house that suited them better.

Get him to sign a release of possession form before you give back his security.