The second report is my attempt at a counter offer. 

I need advice, I am attempting to buy a 3 bed 2.5 home (My very first home) from a older gentleman with; no representation who is trying to move out of state ASAPWho refuses to pay a broker fee (because he absolutely does not like agents)  and he also DIY his home by adding the extra rooms and bathrooms.

I am attempting to consider the pros and cons of this arrangement and was looking for advice and insight from those who have done in before.

If it's Fast & Cheap it will not be Good, If it's Good & Fast it will not be Cheap. " This is what I like to call The Reality Paradox, where people spend ridiculous amounts of time and stress attempting to get the unrealistic result of quality work, readily available when they need, for the bottom of the barrel prices, with excellent reliability.

I have banked with Chase for most of my left. 4 checking accounts, 3 credit cards, 1 line of credit all under one roof is nice.I do have lines of credit with 3 other banks but I dont keep deposits with them.In attempting to refinance my commercial office building, one of the bankers said they would have more lending flexibility if I had my accounts with them.

On the duplex deal,we need more info on what you are attempting to do.

Attempt to recoup my investment (whole or in part ) while taking a line of equity of some sort to use for a  downpayment on an traditional brrrr. 

This tenant just ignores my calls and my attempts to help him..

It seems that a guest was, for some unknown reason, attempting to move a slate pool table. 

Your best bet is to find the dealer/distributors in your area and "interview" them to see if they align with what you are attempting to accomplish.