This 30% is why it's best to avoid department store cards.

If you don't get a proper acknowledgement that  you are  not responsible, then follow-up with a written letter to the proper department, send it certified so you have proof, that states you did not own the home after x date so please contact the  new owners.     

Go to the planning department and find out what the code is for a rental egress.

Sometimes it is based upon the amount owed.You might find out more helpful information from the people at the sheriff department than all those books, because they deal with it every day and are familiar with local regulations and procedures.  

But I wanted to know a few things before I start my search for the property.1) How do I know which properties I am able to add square footage to2) What department in the city should I speak with?

That's incidentally why the Pennsylvania Department of Welfare has tried to limit this kind of planning over and over again.

To be 100% sure, Call the water/sewer department and see how they do their liens.

I need to contact the county health department the realtor said, to figure out if I can put one of those all propane duplexes previously used for the Montana/North Dakota oil/gas workers, but in mint condition. 

Sorry to hear about all your troubles but you can report the contractor to the building department to see if he has any other violations there but I don't think you will prevail in court on a few vague texts as a viable contract. 

@Russ TrimboliSince the file is closed, the asset probably went from Loss Mit. to the REO department at Everbank.