I feel that is reasonable.What does your contractor usually provide you for work plan prior to starting/deposit?

We originally went under contract at $42k but I knew we were going to be renegotiating that prior to the inspection.

It sounds like your issue is in the piping prior to the septic, but you may also have a septic issue w frequent backups (usually biomat in your drainfield). 

We originally went under contract at $42k but I knew we were going to be renegotiating that prior to the inspection.

So I'm hoping this isn't just a lesson learned event...but when I purchased my rental near joshua tree, the homeowner was to put in a new HVAC system prior to closing.

@Charlie ImonahYou can try to ask the seller to request the tenants to leave via cash for keys and wrap up the cost to evict the tenants prior to closing.

Yet, all the beachfront property owners who bought prior to the decision kept their properties because these were freeholds.

There are lots of ways to withdrawal funds from retirement accounts prior to retirement (Roth contributions any time, 72t distributions, Roth conversion ladder during early retirement, or simply pay the 10% penalty).Any advice beyond this point would require knowledge on the size and composition of your your traditional 401k and your personal tax situation.  

Find out retail prices through their vendors prior to finishing out their price. 2.

Charge a solid application fee, charge for literally everything, also mention in contract cleaning obligation to be hired out at their expense prior to moving with your recommended companies.