The Hero Loan Program as I know, helps anyone who is an education or health professional with purchasing a home.

Yes, I've spoken with several designers now and not just the fees, but the requirements for big ticket improvements like double pain energy efficient Windows, new water line, etc...it adds up fast!!

I have contacted the county health dept and they emailed a sketch included with the original septic permit.

But there were probably a few years where it was painful owning that place. 

The financial health of the association and their ability to hit you with fee increases and special assessments are mostly out of your control.

The existing flooring was nailed down with these flooring nails that were a pain to try and remove, so we ended up nailing them down further into the wood in most cases.

The big trick seems to be getting through the first year, which is just going to be painful, no matter how I slice it.So, that's what I'm thinking.

Yeah, rent control is a huge pain in the *** in Oakland, hence vacant properties selling for a healthy premium over those with tenants. 

But it is a pain to have to meet face to face.  

Independent knowledge accumulation is a pain, but when you get through it you'll know the answers to the bulk of your questions.