I am not sure how similar probate in new jersey is from california but i would guess that she must open up probate first and then the judge will appoint her as the official administrator of the estate in which she will then have the authority to sell the properties and collect any equity from them...in california if probate is open and full authority is requested and granted the the administrator of the estate can sell the real property to who ever she/he wants for whatever amount she/he desires as opposed to obtaining limited authority where heir or administrator must comply with selling at a certain percentage of the courts appraisal value and at a public or private auction to highest bidder...therefore perhaps preventing you from having first option to buy unless you are the highes bidder....anyway im not sure if probate is like this in new jersey. hope it helps! 

My very first tenant moved in on Thursday, making me officially a landlord.

- Will I receive a letter or so stating that I used an official permit & licensed contractor for the work or what will be the evidence?

I don't have official data, but I'm definitely seeing it across the board.  

There's no official asking price.

So I can officially say my brother and I have closed our first real estate deal!

The Chief Lending Official called me back, when he heard about what happened, he knew my companies, and saw me the same day.

I'm sure once I submit my official offer Tuesday that this along with other docs will be provided. 

The buyer will be issued a short sale approval letter from the bank -- this is the official letter that indicates that the bank is willing to allow the SS to complete, and lays out all the terms and conditions of the sale.

The process officially starts with the filing of the "notice of demand", "lis pendens" or some other document at the courthouse.