On a short term hard money loan yes. 65% CLTV max 

I can't decide if I want to pursue a lawsuit for them to turn water back on (and possibly lose) or if I want to eat the money for several months and hope there's water below me.

IMO this is no way to make a living, but if chasing rents and ignoring tenants is the strategy, then you can definitely hit your 1%+ rule here in San Antonio.For my money we've been looking at small multi-family properties in mid to large size midwestern cities. 

It’s not as hard as you think and if this Amtrak attracts more people to Scranton, not only will they not want to live in an old run down house but they’ll likely have the money to rent or buy something newer.

Hard money How did you add value to the deal?

Hopefully this is not some news to you, but sellers are no longer having to pay buyer agent commissions, now is a Choice, which might be confusing, but there is nothing to worry about. still, it doesn't change the fact that to maximize profit, it's wise for sellers to offer a buyer agent commission, attracting more qualified buyers to the listing. and for buyers, the main change is the need for a few extra forms and agreements before viewing properties. 

I've read over James Wise's Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods but at 7 years old it's surely a bit dated.

It could but I wouldn't get a bank account for holding money if they have all kinds of garbage fees like most small banks do.

With his logic, the landlord would spend money to re-pipe the building, add another meter, and he would pay $23/month to get a separate bill, instead of paying half of the landlord's bill which runs about $15/month.

Person purchased a neglected facility using hard money.