You can get a rubber mat for your under-the-sink cabinet if you are that worried about it.

They also care about water heater straps (in WA) and if there is earth to wood contact. 

my agent usually does a 200$ home depot or lowes gift card based on whats closer as well as special gift. example- custom welcome mat or a front door placard with clients last name on it. if its a repeat client or customer or partner it would have to be more personal such as idk maybe local sports team tickets or shows doesn't need to be crazy but they wont forget you ever. 

We have the means to make the offer and to complete the rehab but that would leave us pretty strapped.

The house has two creeks running through and I've since learned that is also a welcome mat for rats.

That is if the $26k you are putting in from the beginning doesn't totally strap you for cash.Also, and this is a personal thing which may not be true for you, I always want the numbers to cash flow positive after including property management in the calculations.Good luck.

1-4 Units on a strap is considered residential multi-family. 5+ is commercial. 

Strapping or no strapping.....it depends on the thickness, material and condition of the sheathing you are screwing into.

Would you approach real estate investing differently if you weren't so strapped for cash?

That's why no one is going to go to the mat on this one.