These don't necessarily benefit the seller do they thus strengthening your offer? 

This is strengthened by the recent change by Fannie and Freddie to ensure everyone is adhering to ANSI measuring standards (the new change went into effect on 4/1). 

They other, not only DOESN'T have to worry about any of that BUT BENEFITS from it because the laws and regulations are literally written to GIVE YOU BUSINESS, and are continuously strengthened to force all that business through you. 

If an unrepresented buyer asks you to give up the buyer side commission for him to strengthen his offer, what are your legal options and obligations? 

We are proactively taking steps to position ourselves for success by strengthening relationships with our key principals so we are confident that we’ll still have access to debt even when and if banking lending standards tighten.

Also, I would take some time to reflect on what transpired and see if you can use this experience as a way to strengthen your tenant screening process.

If you are in a hot market, buying cash and then financing after the close would strengthen offers; however, this means you have to have a lot of money for many markets. 

But if not, it's time to learn your Section 162 case history, and perhaps prepare your clients for the need to redo leases to strengthen the case that their rental activity is a trade or business."

Like you, I'll probably have to invest in another state until the rental market strengthens if I want to buy and hold.

The Third Month strengthens your position as to who runs what.