I usually have the servicer make contact, assess the financial situation, and pass the info along to me. 

Looking at the bigger picture learning/progressing is a goal of life and change is what fuels it.I do know that real estate is the best investment vehicle and I'm trying to get an education on that right now.

When the current owner took possession, assessed values, etc. 

We're glad you've joined us and look forward to following your progress.

Two part question here...I'm looking at purchasing a 4 unit building that is assessed at 150,000 and is listed at 125,000.  

;)  I've watched Ben's BP podcast relating to his first major apartment building acquisition (in progress).

Bottom line for us:  2 sold properties does not make for a good assessment of the ARV & your September ARV will soon be unuseable so there may only be one comp.  

WHAT IF, as a first step, the HOA were to assess fines and place liens on the property for not meeting community standard (they could even spend the time as necessary to adjust their ccr's as needed to detail community standard ...

That's before the roof needs to be replaced and still has a decent life left to sell the place with.Good job, Ben, I encourage everyone to learn to assess and value each property in the market they are dealing with instead of assuming your performance will be replicated someplace else, which just goes against the laws of economic factors of RE

I would love to hear some feedback now that I have made more progress on this property!