Let the health inspector know if they tenant is not being cooperative about letting you in.

Were you able to get home inspectors and/or contractors into the property to give you a report and bids? 

Our due diligence checks out- our independent contractors, building inspectors and assessors have all come back ok or as expected. 

I am not familiar with private lending, but I thought I would look into it as it seems to me that a good deal could be had all around if a private investor was interested in helping us to purchase the home and finance the necessary renovations, and for us to pay a monthly mortgage to the private investor.At this point, I have not, of course, had an inspector out to the home and do not know how much renovation it requires.

Dzien dobra,In my experience (which only consists of buying my very first flip that I am house hacking right now) is that you only need a steady job, two years of job history in a related field, two months of bank statements, $1000 Ernest money deposit, $350 for an inspector, and a 640 credit score (for an FHA type loan).Credit score really doesn't matter much if you have the rest of the package.

That they can get the work done, the right way and you don't have to wait around for inspectors.  

I had a HUD inspector also come a walk the house.

After asking a few people "in the know", including a city inspector, I attempted the easiest, cheapest fix. 

hi yamin. i would be willing to help you in making some deals here in the buffalo, ny area. as you can see from my profile, i am a home inspector as well as a real estate investor here in this area. let me  know how i can be of help to you

I attended the inspection and John agreed to fix each and every item the inspector pointed out.