You want to avoid going to court at all costs because it COSTS A LOT. 

I'm from Chicago, and would like to actually know who you eventually partnered with @Larry Fried, so I know who will be trustworthy, since I know its not the OP of this thread.To the OP, the problem with your '2 sides of story' argument, is that you haven't defended yourself with any story, and that you lost a court case.

But finding out how MA housing court judges apply it could be eye opening. 

You can drive around town and see what homes are not being maintained, you can view court filings, foreclosure filings, vacant homes, divorces, but there is no list that anyone has that can be passed along.  

Options get hung up in court when claims` can be made or things aren't clear.

I have to say that the courts will not favor a tenant having to pay for the first $100 in repairs as repairs are the landlords duties UNLESS the cause for repairs are caused by the tenant.  

I am currently flipping homes in Orange County and just purchased a home at the court house steps.  

You may need to have the assignment filed in court so you are the established landlord.

NOW take that information to the host site for the tax deed auction or to the court house and compare it to the O&E report found in the tax deed file.  

and Second, have you run the owners name through the clerk of court in order to find anything filed regarding the house?