If you're marketing to LLCs, then you may encounter a little bit more resistance from the owners, especially since you're starting out.This is how I handle my offer process.

If the seller is resistant, or vague, walk away.

There's also resistance (and for good reason) from environmentalists and those who see what overdevelopment does in the face of mother nature as california keeps expanding into wildfire and earthquake territory.

The long term, recession resistant nature of the asset class lends itself to be a good fit for SDIRA money. 

They're water resistant, can be installed on top of tile and you can find some cheap options for under $1.40 sqft.

Gary For this kind of thing home is warmer and resistance is lowered a little bit and in their mind they are selling their home at that point.

Probably hard money would be the path of least resistance.

Moreover, if the seller is resisting having the utilities on, I'd view that as a HUGE red flag (similar to how I'd view it if someone tried to sell me a used car, but wouldn't let me test drive it or even start the engine).Since correct and thorough due diligence is the foundation of successful REI, I'd be extremely hesitant to buy a property without testing the aforementioned items (unless the property was so heavily discounted that I could replace/fix all of those items if they turned out to be faulty...but even then, I'd be wary).I'd suggest strategizing with your agent on the best way to get the utilities turned on so you can do a correct inspection...Good luck out there!

Would think residential zoning might be the path of least resistance but again, i'm very new. 

@James Syed, we drive by Staunton when visiting family (Herrin/Murphysboro) and I always have to resist stopping and browsing the old car dealership there on I55....way too easy to spend money on old cars instead of investing it in something that will make money.