Many factors play into determining value, not many comps would have such a facility, the style as adapted to the home is considered, the functional utility as a residence may be less as well.I'd first call your zoning people and see if 5 or 6 kids requires a zoning variance.Having daycare services or other business activities in a residence is possible with conventional loans, but you can cross the line depending on the perceived liabilities of a business, any significant modifications to a property, public access and other aspects can cause financing issues.

What would I need to determine if this deal is good enough without pulling records from the local office?

That information is absolutely meaningless.Do a comp analysis and determine what the actual after-repair-value of the property.

One of the best first steps is determining which way you want to go.

Maybe send out your trusted handyman to do the repair so he can determine the cause.

It's determined by HUD, which prevails if any state law fails to address the intent of the federal.

But, before you pick that area, you'll needed to determine what your goals and what you enjoy doing.

Glad to see another determined newbie in the LA area.If you happen to plan on attending a REI meeting, let me know.

I have not determined as of yet what motivation is and will determine when I meet with the seller.

@Deborah B.In my areas the prices are *primarily* determined by the number of bedrooms.