You will discover so much value here.

The property condition will be discovered while the inspection is performed, and that is when you as the buyer will either demand that the current owner fix all those items, or buy the property at a reduced price.There are two thoughts on the credit card idea.

The only way to "turn" an owner into a seller of any kind is to talk to them to discover what the motivations might be.  

@Mark Cantrell Your list and mailers are big components to having a successful marketing campaign.  

I've discovered this path of real estate a few months ago and am educating myself and trying to learn as much as I can.

Is there a penalty (or need to destroy the wall, or get city inspection if up to code) if city discover it?

I'm just getting things off the ground but am missing a few key components including an agent.

If we or the town later discovers faulty plumbing work, are permits pulled to review the original plans and will there be an issue if the person who performed the work isn't the person on the permit?

LOTS of written communication (I prefer no texts or emails) with the tenant to discover his pain point but have a good lawyer for backup.

I've read that pretty much every major component needed to be replaced...