@Jared RyanAs mentioned above, your credit score (which is really a reflection of your credit history) is really only a portion of qualifying for a loan. 

This article reflects the rebound and upward momentum in the real estate market.

I sent them each a letter letting them know where to send the rent check, where their deposit will be held and the lease that reflects the same terms as the past landlord (as required by law).

If it's an old building that hasn't been converted then you need to figure out that costs and reflect it in your offer price.

unless they are in zoning and land entitlement or land development it wouldn't be developers. if they are that's not a design build firm that's a land development company. make sure to understand how they earn their income and how they come in. how the earn their revenue will be more reflective of what their business is than what they say it is 

The drop in rates reflect a shift back toward long-term bonds (as the stock market volatility increased).

I am not a believer in waiving inspection contingencies unless it's a flipper/rehabber client and they thoroughly understand what they are getting in to and the price reflects the risk.

Confirm that all change of ownership documents with the county appraisal districts are updated to reflect your information.

"...and is presumably reflected in the price (i.e., the interest rate and other costs) that the lender charged for the loan."

But if that is simply not an option whether it's because your tax returns won't truly reflect your earnings (possibly due to heavy deductions/write-offs) or if you haven't filed in a few years and fear the tax penalties, then going an alternative route could be of tremendous benefit.