Screen them hard for your safety and for theirs. 

Just be patient with the process and know that some sellers may chose a non-VA buyer due to the lengthy underwriting process.

Be patient and last tip is to keep your active income as long as you can and try to continue to increase that active income every year as that will help you grow your rental portfolio much faster and live below your means. 

I do know that very few municipalities won't require egress and life safety considerations.

I will say when they moved in, I had to replace the washer, the microwave, the carpet in the entire basement (required), the safety sensors on the garage.  

Granted MFH are more common in rougher parts of central jersey and my purchasing power can't acquire me something in North Jersey here homes are much more desirable when it comes to appreciation and schools and safety.

There is still a negative slope if you’re watching the trends, and patient buyers get rewarded.

Be patient 

Contractor is being patient with her and trying to talk as to why she's not opening the door.

It makes sense they do that for safety reasons but how frustrating for you!