It's possible, but it needs to be a win-win for both you and the seller.  

Do I get that information only as the winning bidder?

am I missing something or is he still short cash to even get a loan and your simply gap funding him ? 

We simply added the task to our move out and move in task list.

What if you named it simply "Hilltop Park" and with that in larger letters on the sign, put smaller below it "a mobile home community" or something like that....just my two cents as I needlessly stressed picking the right name for my car detailing service business back in 07 and it paid off greatly over the years in name recognition and verbal referrals.

You could delay closing or simply ask for credit at closing for the general amount of this "thing."

Simply, as an agent, there is more disclosure involved.

This will give you a better idea of the surrounding properties and if you have a good shot of winning the zoning appeal.

Think about what your time if worth, if you can find a Realtor to do the work for you then that's a big win!

Would I simply be "useless" without any background in house fixing?