Certain neighborhoods will have what's called a POS or Point Of Sale inspection.

I had told him that, like with all other payments, the work would have to first be inspected by myself and then the lenders agent who inspects.

I am only familiar with the contract in my state but items seller agrees to do based on inspection findings are their responsibility unless spelled out differently.  

Close with asking permission to informally inspect the property to see if you can make your vision work.

These experiences highlighted the need for thorough inspections and budgeting for contingencies when tackling older properties.

We made an offer (which was accepted) and ordered a home inspection.

The report is as good as the answers you provide to their questions.The risk is that you answer a question incorrectly which generates an incorrect report.I would have a discussion with your CPA to determine what the land basis is(required to start the cost segregation).I would also have your home inspection / appraisal on hand to answer the questions more thoroughly. 

When you say professional quote do you recommend just paying a trusted contractor to do a walkthrough or do you first recommend getting an inspection to figure out what’s fully wrong/needs to get fixed before bringing in a contractor?

And without an inspection , Nope .

@Jesse StrengIf you buy turn-key, make sure you get your own independent inspection.