It almost sounds like they wanted the seller to do a build-to-suit prior to the close of escrow. The more typical way of handling it would usually involve a straightforward “as is” transaction with the seller and a subsequent remodel on the buyer’s dime after the close of escrow.

I know there are a couple of professional ADA trolls out there who are basically extorting the business community with frivolous lawsuits. I hadn’t heard anything about that making its way into the residential markets but you never know. These guys apparently have their pet attorneys and they seem to be quite brazen about pocketing the cash AND forcing the physical improvements on these small office and retail properties. I’ve had several of these small business guys tell of having to spend $5k to make the troll go away + the $5k for improvements to their buildings that never ever get used.

I think that asking the questions was a smart move because of the element of the unknown, but you would want to be a little coy about it. There’s no sense in giving them some comment that can be spun into being a violation of the ADA or the Civil Rights Act.