I REALLY want to be able to use this rate, but I have to have purchase & sale by June 5 (so I actually have a deadline!

Put a deadline on the response so you know what you need to do to move on from the drama.

However, in the contract with a new contractor, I would specify reductions in writing if they can't meet their deadlines. i.e.: they state 2 weeks. anything longer and the remaining 50% to be lowered by a percentage or dollar amount each day over those 14 days.

Until the last minute - when we get requests from them with 1 or 2 weeks of notice before trenches close or deadlines need to be met.

My experience has been that if the tenant hasn't been able to pay the rent to avoid the Pay or Quit Notice deadline, they will not have it in 10 days, 30 days, or ever.

If it is owner occupied only then the period deadline will tell you when investors can bid.

If you do not meet with the Tenant to inspect the property and document noted issues, there should be a clear deadline of when a complete list is provided to you.

The math just isn't there.The only few times I've used HM/Bridge options for my MHP clients is when I get a call two or three weeks before the closing that the financing fell through and there is a 1031 exchange deadline coming up.  

That way it will either be delivered or you will have a sealed and postmarked envelope mailed within the 30 day deadline if it ever goes to court. 

Any real estate contract I've ever seen also has inspection clauses, etc. with deadlines that I assume you have not met yet.