If I was sitting on the other side of this I would demand the buyer sign off on a release where they gave permission for the seller and it's broker/agent to communicate directly with the lender.The listing broker needs to know the probability of closing is directly from the lender and not just the borrower before counseling their seller on options.You could offer up more non-refundable EM to get them to extend if you are serious about the purchase and feel confident about the lender.Nobody here has read the contract.You should have built in protections before signing anything to compensate for these items.

The way I understand the situation is this: If the Seller signs and gives the Buyer written permission to market and sell the property than you can.But: I do not buy or sell properties on the MLS.I would love to see what others with whom use the MLS have to say.

I will add get permission to back some cookies... nice cookie smell is comforting.. also bottles of water with your name on them.. lender there to do instant prequal is nice as well.. you can't do this but when its your listing.. you can offer a free cruise certificate.  

What type of permits/permission I would need to acquire from the city etc.

Unless a property is actively listed in the MLS for sale, there won't be any "legitimate" way to gain access, without the owner's permission.  

I have an out of state owner that would like to give me written permission to see one of his homes.

In our area, we are not allowed to give out codes without seller permission, and in no circumstances do we allow buyer's access to our MLS keys. 

You need to get permission from the homeowner in writing in order to speak with lender.  

While you can't run a credit report without the tenants' permission, the current lease agreement should provide some good info. 

That doesn't protect the rehab money, but you should also record the contract so you could show up in a title search, thus reducing a sellers ability to sell without your permission.