Funny you should mention that.

If this is the case, would the original seller financing have to mention that the buyer (me) can re-sell the property at any time? 

Just want to mention that sometimes it works out better to raze an existing property down to like 2 studs and rebuild around it so that it still is classified as a remodel versus a complete new build. 

In Reno and metro areas, insurance companies primarily focus on roofs, the age of the building, wiring updates, and water pipes, as mentioned @Cameron Moore.

This is where I would focus, as these are the same attributes that attracted those responsible for the larger projects like the Bellweather District you mentioned in your initial post.With your budget I would recommend NW Philadelphia (Germantown and Mount Airy in particular).

Avoid leading with a low offer or mentioning how long it’s been listed.

I'm going to reiterate what's already been mentioned above, but I'm going to actually give you examples of why it's relevant to you to find a U.S. tax professional.1 - You're going to need to file U.S. taxes once you have property down here, there's federal filings, state filings, and sometimes local filings too2 - Tons of tax treaties between the U.S. and Canada that are easy to miss and can cost you a lot of money (important one with rentals - effectively connected income - if the professional you talk to doesn't know what this is, run away)3 - The amount of days you spend in the U.S. needs to be tracked and if you go over a threshold, all of your worldwide income could be taxable by the U.S.4 - Selling real property means up to 15% of your sales proceeds might not be available to you for years (FIRPTA)5 - Lots of nuance at the state and local levels, which both want to take as much money from you as possibleMain takeaway here is that you should find a U.S. based tax person.

As mentioned before, stairs were broken, floors were moldy, etc. 

And let me not forget to mention, it’s MUCH more affordable. 

While they did mention they aren't responsible for utility lines aren't they suppose to stop digging and call the "call before you dig number" if they find a wire.