Does your shed have electric, plumbing, a/c?

That could make a difference because if you're in a heating climate with a gas furnace that could be cheaper to heat with than an electric mini-split as they become less efficient at very low temps. 5.

Electric, gas, water, sewer, data/telco, and storm.3.

Accordingly, I elected NOT to pursue defamation charges or to recover the almost $400 electric bill that I paid while the property sat vacant. 

Anything with major work like kitchens , baths, structural, electrical, plumbing, etc will likely roll into more time...Where did you get the 3-4 months timeline?

After that, you won't have anymore problems with the odors and mold and dirt and bugs and stuff that love to hide out in the padding.

Until you work out the bugs in your sysyems and procedures.Or, if you invest farther away, do a personal, physical (not Zoom) walkthrough of the property before you sign off on it.Surprises and out of state investments, don't make good bed fellows. 

The place is overgrown and currently not liveable but is on a town road and has water/electric/sewer.

Electrical - Hopefully the electrical has been updated.  

The house will need new interior everything - plumbing, electrical, kitchen, bathroom, walls, etc.