Update @Daniella Sanchez - we just had a structural engineer come out and give us an idea of what work is required, the wall that I need fixed in the basement is bulging out about 3 inches so it either needs a couple of steal beams set up so that it doesn't keep moving OR replace the wall entirely...The bids I'd gotten were mainly for water proofing the basement.. sealing cracks, installing pipes to channel the water elsewhere, etc.

I am glad to be here and trying not to get overwhelmed by all the information, while also having to force myself to turn off my laptop lest I burn my retinas from reading article after article.

He just got a full ride at Colorado state for engineering.

If they need to be stamped by an architect or engineer then it makes even harder for them to just “steal” your plans.

It isn't a rock solid rule, but it certain helps you filter through properties quickly instead of burning many many minutes analyzing a property for a rental.

But no sense in burning bridges because i never know when I might need them.

They may even require your engineering and architect drawings before closing on a project of that size.

This protects the architect/designer/engineer from having someone copy their plans without their consent, have it reproduced repeatedly, limits their liability and makes sure they get paid for their work. 

My arms burn when I am inside home.

Addressing the problems is like trying to put out small individual fires in a forest that is burning.