It is important to remember that most owners of rundown and distressed properties have emotional ties to their homes.

Which might be a good example of trying not to be emotional about this stuff. 

After all, the numbers have to make sense and we are usually not emotional about it, but are there anything that we can bind the sellers before attorney review is over?

Do not make any emotional decisions. 

Both ideas are intended to help veterans get the physical, mental, and emotional support they need to help them return to civilian life as happy and productive contributing member of society. 

Take all the emotions out of this and then tie that will the tenants you had previously and why they left.

So, like I said, if you've found your "forever home" and want to lock in interest, have someone else pay down the majority of your mortgage, etc. then I think it's a viable strategy.Just realize you're buying for "want" and "emotion" and you'll be fine. 

Their emotions are a result of the previous owners of the property but mentally anchored to the real estate.

Keep emotions out of it as much as possible (easier said than done, I know).If you feel uncomfortable saying you are not the owner (when in fact you are) consider putting your properties in an entity, ie; corporation, LLC, trust, etc. 

Take the emotions out of the decision and really think on if it makes sense.