The building was in a low C neighborhood, built around 1930 with average rents of $450/unit (did the best background checks possible, but would still get some very low quality tenants and their friend/family/bed bug visitors), along with some deferred maintenance.

Space is at a premium around here, and I don't imagine you'd have too much issue finding suitable visitors interested in whatever space/timeframe you were offering.

The lending options won't be suitable and you'll have to work with a lender that charges higher rates, and fees. 

Most friends and family will understand your saving for a house3) Take some time to look in areas that would be suitable to move to while not killing your commute. 

My brokers position is generally to pass the transaction to a more suitable agent and split the commission.

Are there any ways to control and    Invest in a property I'm living in then sell for a profit in two years when I'm ready to buy a more suitable house?

Give her a non-renewal notice, now, real early, with added notation that you would accept her vacating notice early if she finds something suitable for herself earlier.

Suitable for an owner occupied situation.

if a visitor to open house person is currently working with an agent and they purchase the property after attending the open house, am i entitled to a commission

the opportunity for the individual small to medium sized investor in commercial properties is in those properties not considered suitable for institutional ownership.