I don't think you need such a massive property management solution for 18 properties...

etc etc.They have a problem and you are the solution!

Having an engineer take measurements, do a few calculations and recommend a solution will not cost that much.A local flipper renovated a 1950s bungalow not to far from my personal residence.  

As a Rule of thumb, if the building was built after 1965 and before 1985 chances are that the builder used some kind of “innovative” (read cheap) solution trying to save money.

The dilemma: borrow money in order to make cosmetic improvements or find another solution?

Is this (and situations like it) just a complete no-go, or are there creative ways to work with the lienholders or any other solutions?

Best solution is 5% down on a conventional loan

However, one popular solution to this problem is through the use of “portfolio” lenders.In this free, live real estate workshop, I'm going to share with you my top tips for finding portfolio lenders and using them to fund your deals.

Does anyone have any other solutions to this problem? 

The payment to you depends on total rents received minus expenses with some minimum positive cash flow""Either solution I can act fast usually within 10 to 15 business days"@Steve Vaughan has some great negotiation language too