That is most likely the elevation of the sewer line going to the exterior sewer. 

Develop an elevator pitch that conveys to brokers you have the plan in place to close the deal. 

The first-floor elevation would need to be raised by about 6"4.

We've had several break-ins over the past 3 months, so it's a safety issue, an issue of ethics, and an issue with the wear and tear on the elevator and building as there are people moving in and out of this unit after several weeks to several months.    

Do you have the elevation certificate of the house?

This will vary a bit by market, but in general I expect a premium for first floor units in buildings without elevators.

You could also narrow your filter to properties that are elevated, or have FEMA approved mitigation measures (flood vents; filled-in basements, etc), which can all decrease premiums w some private carriers, it seems.   

Find those three people, give them the 30 second elevator pitch about what you're looking for and see if you can strike up some interest. 

I would not jump to the conclusion that simply because a 25-year old report found elevated vapors means the property today poses a risk to human health and should not be purchased.

He may have been impossible to deal with, but Eli Broad used his immense fortune to elevate our city’s standing as a cultural mecca.