If you're saying that the company was dissolved before the contract was executed I'd check into the possibility of a fraud claim with an attorney.

Two identical houses that are about 12 feet from each other and basically on the same lot.One is vacant, and has even been broken into and had wiring and pipes stolen.

He is 110% fraud.

It's good to hear advice that that is a possibility without committing mortgage fraud.

There is nothing the same about buying a home to live in, or an investment property...even if the two are identical...right down the the cost, mortgage, utility bills, all other bills, purchase price and sales price.  

Let me give you an example of the current situation which may illustrate another issue that may be impacting the Tampa market which hasn't been discussed yet-- fraud. 

I'm wondering what the value comparison is for this 3 unit multifamily is...Say we have 2 building for sale that are identical. both are 3 story (1 unit on each floor) buildingsBuilding A is just a multifamily building sold together as an apartment (for rentals)Building B is comprised of three separately taxed and parceled units.

The previous owner was arrested and is now in prison for some type of fraud.

Conventional Loans will require that NO PART of the down payment is from borrowed funds and when the find out, they will attest fraud and call the loan.

Also, since they are much more loosely regulated, it is easier for a real estate developer to commit fraud and not be detected.So it makes sense to me that there are rules in place to prevent "the average Joe", who probably isn't very sophisticated, from being ripped off.