On another forum (bethepro.com), some others correctly pointed out that it's probably not a great idea to concrete around main water pipes / gas valves that are in some of these planters.

I don't want pipes to freeze if a tenant is not paying for heat. 

It's just a fancy exhaust fan that pumps basement air out and up through a PVC pipe going up the side of the home.

I don't want to work and BRRRR sounds exhausting. 

In short, on-site generated solar power is most likely a pipe dream for tenants.I would not allow this on a rental. 

@Anthony Wick I think you’re looking at the wrong lead pipe.

This will also give you an opportunity to practice your negotiation skills.And after you exhaust the free options you can do a regular search for furniture, appliances, etc. and you will find plenty of affordable listings.

With those below ground units and the kind of weather we get in Chicago, I immediately start thinking about foundation issues, pipe leaks, old wiring, etc. 

I learned this the hard way after half of my copper pipes were stolen, the other half were bent and damaged and one of my brand new windows was smashed in.

If they're old galvanized pipes they're probably all rusted out anyways and it's nice to have a whole new pex system.