As you probably already know, YouTube is a great resource for training videos on any home improvement projects.Have you thought about searching for a handyman who would be willing to perform home improvement projects in exchange for a reduction on a portion of the rent in your rental unit.

owner portion of utilities ?

Specificially, you should cross out a portion of the first sentence of section 15 and replace it with some other language, so that it reads: “If Buyer fails to comply with this contract, Buyer will be in default, and Seller may (a) enforce specific performance, seek such other relief as may be provided by law, or both, or (b), as Seller’s sole and exclusive remedy, terminate this contract and receive the earnest money as liquidated damages, thereby releasing both parties from this contract.”

Maybe if the owner is open to a small portion of the current NOI, you take every dime of your portion and use it towards renovating and filling units.

If I am understanding correctly, I cannot offer a portion of the rent as a credit towards the price of the house because it would violate Dodd Frank. 

Have the seller "carry" any portion of the down payment you cannot come up with.3.

Not rich per se, but enough to be free to enjoy life.I am keeping the goals portion (not the overall post, sorry again!) 

--The rent would be higher than that of a typical rental (to factor in taxes, insurance, the portion going towards the purchase, etc.), right?

Both buildings have flat membranes and then the old school shingle look on the outer and upper portion of the exterior  as can be seen in the photo.  

Though if the inhabitants are not paying a portion of the bill they might not be inclined to try and conserve energy.