Keep it and you are trapped and if any downturn you could be in an awkward situation of over-leveraged debt.  

And - if you feel awkward asking her to give you a tour - contact a different Realtor to go ahead and show you the property.

This, of course, is an awkward arrangement, cumbersome and can also be problematic as a list of issues too long for this thread may be created.There are other ways to accomplish what you're trying to do.

I picked up the properties for a heavily discounted price (because they had sat on the market), and had no problems finding highly qualified (and high-earning) tenants that made the place cashflow right out of the gate.Another example: I once bought a property in an A class neighborhood that had an awkwardly-placed stairwell inside the front entrance, which turned off other buyers.

It's a personal call, you could make things awkward by questioning them, especially when you don't have any apparent authority to do so, unless of course they are causing damage.

I ask this because my idea is renting out a house by bedroom to college students (I'm young enough where I don't think it would be awkward if I stayed with college students) and rent all the bedrooms in the house and either: 1) Stay in a small room in the house that may not technically be a bedroom or2) Stay in my 15' commercial canvas tent in the backyard.

You're right requesting to get into the property at this time would be awkward considering the current situation.

This helps baseline condition and gives the resident options on setting up for a service without having to have the awkward discussion on  cleanliness issues.  

When I am asking a favor I call, and when I don't want to make it awkward, usually a problem with the tenant I need to address or to raise rent, I mail an official letter.

The depth of your countertop need not change.If the space is really awkward, you might be able to use a separate in-counter cooktop and wall oven to better fit the kitchen.