We found through dates on papers and food boxes (that could be read) it had been empty since around the year 2000, and they just left the kitchen with all the food in it.

You would be amazed at the number of people who think you can cram food down both drains because there is a disposal in one drain.

In that case...When I get the most accurate ball park value of the land and I get it under contract what is the process or are there special contracts I need to take it to auction.

FIRPTA requires escrow officers, closing attorneys or other settlement processors to withhold and remit to the IRS 10% of the gross sale price unless the IRS issues a Withholding Certificate of Exemption to the closing agent. 

Food for thought.Lastly, the money you will save while not paying rent, can be saved and further invested in your next deal.

Food for thought of the day....The importance of building your support team/group I have found is a critical factor in this business.

Does anyone have any ideas on how to expedite this process or convince Freddie Mac that this isn't a gift, by their definition?

I was not planning on using one in the finding process or the selling process.

I usually end up paying $100 in materials.I'm not trying to take food out of your mouth, what i'm saying is, I don't want to pay $2000 for a $500 furnace, and then $2000 in 'labor' for a job that takes one guy and his Igor less than a full day to complete.One last thing, if you clear $240 for a furnace install (1-6 hours, it varies) you are KILLING it.  

As there is an additional approval needed via the court, have you found them to be a much more lengthy process or is it more of just a slight hiccup?