On top of that, with how hot RE is at the moment, if I include any kind of contingencies (Home Inspection/Financing) my offer probably won't get accepted.As for financing, I have spoken to an HML, and a Broker - 18 lenders total.

With the inspection contingency, you can ask that the seller fix the items or provide you money back at closing for repairs.

Use floating closing dates and contingencies. 

We would like to buy another home to live in and fix up without it being contingent on the sale of our current home (even though we still plan to sell it).

If you want, make offer contingent on inspection.

All of this is contingent on what the one house looks like.

Collection attorneys work on a contingent percentage of recovery plus expenses and they have the processes and knowledge to get them served properly.

Were there any contingencies in the contract? 

An agent like myself would be happy to assist with this due diligence and first connections to make sure you find one of the best agents in the area.The other option is to talk directly with the listing agent and have them sell your home and put contingencies on both properties - you buy if your home goes under contract and you sell if things are still under contract or closed with the purchase.

Instead, we are putting this out, with proper contingencies (inspection, appraisal, financing, etc.) to give confidence to the seller that you intend to buy at your stated terms, barring any unexpected hurdles covered by your contingencies--which can ethically be negotiated should they arise.