I see we have newbies here and here it is again, the zero interest ploy.Suggest you do some investigating about no interest loans.

Did anyone see the ProPublica investigation and articles about HomeVestors, the entity behind the "We Buy Ugly Houses" franchise?  

What preliminary work should be done when considering buying a foreclosure...Thanks in advance!

Run a preliminary title report or get an O&E (Ownership & Encumbrance) report on the property first.

A few preliminary questions I have are: 1) How is the overall economy?

They will send a code enforcement officer to investigate and they can put pressure on the neighbor to clean it up.Talk to your insurance company.

I would investigate and see if the fire came from the wiring or if it originated inside the oven or on the stove top.

I don't have the knowledge, time to investigate (maybe perceived), or fortitude for courthouse step auctions.

If you do not refund the balance of my deposit or send proof of payment for the remaining materials as good faith towards you completing the project before Monday April 1st at 5pm, I will be forced to file a civil complaint, report you to the police and request that they investigate the situation and file criminal charges for theft, fraud and anything else they determine is applicable.

They can investigate this and point you in the right direction.