I'd put the sod down, get a different handyman, he doesn't sound to handy, or willing to put down sod.Fall sod usually does well, I did a whole back yard and had the sod company install it, done in a day.Mother nature might be kind and in your favor on this. 

That will come naturally if he sees interest or offers up alternative ideas.  

Any granite/natural stone budget recommendation around Cleveland?

For specialized items I've used Postmates to deliver things so I don't have to make the trek such as a mini-fridge, coffee-maker and hair dryer on separate occasions - all from Target.  

It just does and its because of human nature.

I've been brainstorming for a while now and maybe it's just a natural aversion to risk, but it seems like the only option is to hold where I am and get back financial footing before moving on to the next purchase.Any help is appreciated!

Such is the nature of investing.  

Offer to help people clean out a house or something of that nature.

Naturally, these improvements need to be carried out in a manner, and at a cost, that makes business sense.

This deal has more hair on it than just QCD:original owners were foreclosed upon by Fanny Mae;then the property was transferred or sold by Fanny to this bank;the bank has been sitting on it for 4 years and finally decides to sell, butin addition to QCD they want cash only (not even hard money);10% earnest money deposit - I have no problem with it if I can get it back in case the deal does not work out - but they allow forno option period and no contingencies of any kind!