The end buyer would "nominate" you at any time prior to close to close on the contract, and with that agreement, you can re-convey the deed without an excise tax.

I knew what to bid and topped the second bidders by just nominal amounts.  

If you feel it's necessary in the to charge a damage deposit you can always do that, right away or down the road with proper notice. and give them plenty of time to come up with a nominal security deposit like 1/2 the rent.. for current tenants.Better to steady the boat right now so you can steer it than capsize it.

I spoke with a realtor today and she said maybe $250/mo more but that makes no sense bc if I was to sell the condo I would get probably $200k minimum more than a non view unit, so why would the rent be nominally higher?

If the landowner is neighborly, they may agree to the easement for a nominal fee, like $1 (this never happens in our business!)

It's over I quit...Can I nominate this for Post of the Month?

you might try getting an option on a property for a nominal sum ($100 or so) and then trying to sell for a profit during the option period.

You'll also have a few odds and ends to get the place ready, but that could be easily covered out of the 6 month reserve fund after you buy the house.If you are going to live in this house a couple years, you could get an FHA loan requiring 3 percent down. 3-4.5K plus a nominal prudent reserve set by you.

Perhaps suggest they pawn the title for a couple months, and if the loan shark rates are too much, consider a non-landlord solution where you personally loan them the money, have them sign a promisory note for a nominal interest rate, and they sign and you hold the title.

That should buy you back 10-15% of the gross at a nominal cost... maybe $150 - $200 per pad.