Keep in mind, though, that this approach comes with higher down payment requirements and interest rates, which may not be as favorable

If you can match the paint, the walls could probably be touched up. $3,000 is reasonable for a full repaint.

They proved to be a low risk, low cash requirement to get some traction. 

Know anyone who might be able to help?

Reach out to @Tom Gimer at Eastern Title  Agreed Tom is / will be a good resource for higher level financing closings.

Highly recommend you start listening to any of the BiggerPockets Podcasts and pick some various topics you may be interested in and see how you may be able to take action, the most important thing you can do!

I will be blunt and tell you that it sounds like your approach is a bit naive.

That would be wonderful.

It can be problematic if gas hasn't been turned on in a while.

Finding information this way is often faster when necessary information couldn't be obtained directly through the internet.That's the old fashion way of doing things before the internet.