Good information for many here. I would also be concerned about repairs and their costs. My father paid for some plumbing repairs and because he wanted to make his own decisions, he got ripped off a couple of times. We were able to step in on a roof repair and the job was done right by a licensed contractor. I would also be worried about termites with some of the older homes. What would you recommend to take care of some of those issues including the competency of the person selling their house. Has that been challenged? Thanks.[/quote](emphasis added)
Aecetia, the “competency” issue is why I would have the seller present in the law office along with their “heirs” either telephonically, virtually or in person. I would not want any “quiet title” lawsuits or any heirs later coming back and telling a probate judge or DA investigator that I “defrauded” their parent out of their home, esp. if the area escalates in value again DURING or at the END of the seller/tenant’s occupancy. I’ve been in hundreds of courtrooms and seen a lot of STUFF in my day.
As far as your termite concerns, tent fumigation is not an issue with me. I have gone thru it several times in my life. I am also unconcerned with termite eaten beams, trusses or framing wood. To take apart and fix is small potatoes in the grand picture.
I would want to be appraised of all maintenance problems immediately and have control over and make all the maintenance decisions. It would have to be managed like a rental. The laws state that a tenant is entitled to a pest-free living unit with no broken glass, no roof leaks, working fixtures, working built-in appliances, hot water, tall weeds cut down, sanitary carpeting upon move in, etc.
