I would probably start monthly or bi-weekly "safety inspections" to A) document any lack of evidence of risks/issues to the tenant's safety to be prepared to legally defend yourself in the future, and B) to monitor for new/worsening damage to the unit.

We are definitely not ruling out a PM and will definitely use one in the future if it makes sense.

For sure, if these folks ever contact me in the future after blatantly ignoring my inquiries now, chances are I will be the one doing the ignoring in the future....

Maybe my expectations are too high due to the quality of my property manager.Do you agree that a PM should be proactively pointing out future maintenance issues, or am I expecting too much as well?

Ordering a full topographical survey of the property (which will be required for future development and application processes anyway) will give you the ability to show engineering/design groups what you have, and they can give thoughts and bids leading to a site plan. 

It doesn't make sense for someone to purchase when they can rent for so much cheaper.What happens in the future?

I really am only holding the property until I'll get enough capital plus equity to upgrade to a better duplex in the future.

The answer to this question will take into account your mother's goals on how the money needs to work, transition plans in the future, risk tolerance, asset segment preferences (retail, industrial, MF, self-storage, etc.), and many other factors.

In the future, I would suggest communicating that you are facing hurdles or stating that you can't make this happen.

If you want to invest in the future, you want to make sure that your financial life is under control and transparent.