Even if the property is too damaged to fix up you and still try to offer something for the land.

Also, aside from any actual damage to the house, what are some of the pit falls that I should look out for when buying at a trustee sale? 

The builder and his dad are partners in a local construction company that has a very good reputation in our area.  

The people we had installing the counter dripped some polyurethane (or something) on the counter and damaged the finish--it wasn't a big spot, but it looked bad.

Account Closed if you are not concerned with the physical damage coverage and could walk away or rebuild with your own $$.

You might check out crowdfunding sites where you can pool your money with a reputable company that makes hard money loans. 

If you want the property ask the borrower for a deed in lieu of foreclosure, then you will own it, the incentive for them to do that is that you can not seek any damages or amounts due from them, you accept the property, subject to any liens, as full  payment of the debt created. 

The back of the home has a hole in the wall and one of the structural beams has been impacted - it appears as if it has suffered some light damage, although nothing major.

Hello William,Can you refer me to any reputable Hard money lenders with a solid track record?

The house doesn't have much damage but is pretty filthy.