Had a listing go under because the seller had signed an offer to purchase and just walked away from closing without signing. 

Or offer it as a premium for paying members?

Detroit offers solid cash flow potential, a relatively low barrier to entry, and the market fundamentals are improving with a growing population and significant investments in the city.Since you’re based in upstate NY, Detroit is also a quick and easy flight, making it easier to visit and get a feel for the market if you’re considering out-of-state investing.

They will just wait for you to cancel the contract and offer on the listing themselves. 

Yes trying to find info as well, offered 1031 and/or straight investment $s w 6 month min lockup period for a return in the 14s, seems too good(i know what they say, lol)

After you do that then you offer to buy him out of the deal, if he says no then get your attorney to turn it up a notch.If you are kind and generous and do nothing, you will lose a lot of money.

And they very well could argue that your change orders due to inspections are what slowed it down so penalties are not applicable, anyways.I have offered INCENTIVES to finish when I have been in situations closer to yours. 

CMG now offers that in Texas and i jumped all over it.

Located in Kansas. anyone been through this and/or suggestions on what to do? 

Since you mentioned that you are getting started, I highly suggest you house-hack (this is how I got started in Costa Mesa, Orange County).