I don't say this to sound mean, but you need to decide if you're running this as a business to make profit or as a cheap housing alternative for those in financial hardship. 

No Architects in the area have experience with that as it's not common and the local codes I heard can be more stringent than Energy Star.So then do they have to physically meet or can I just send the architectural drawings to the Rater to make changes or add materials?

*I understand terms such as deposit amount, contingencies and settlement period can play into the decision making of the Seller, but a syndicator who is relying on outside equity is likely performing full diligence and is not shortening their contract period materially from others in pursuit of the deal.

If you file jointly then a spouse's material participation should count. 

any tips / alternatives? 

I need $33,500-$40,000 to complete the rehab including cost of permits, labor, and materials.

A property is considered Uninhabitable if "A condition that materially interferes with the tenant's life, health, or safety." 

While paying down the mortgage sooner has its merits, it's crucial to weigh this against alternative investment opportunities.Regarding upgrading to a property with better cash flow/appreciation potential, it's challenging to surpass the cash flow of a quadruplex unless venturing into commercial assets.

However, I'm open to hearing different perspectives and alternative investment strategies that fellow investors may recommend.With that said, I would greatly appreciate any insights, experiences, or alternative investment suggestions that you may have.

I keep dismantled old house materials for almost 20 years in the trailers.