We will attempt to rent as is, and if it comes up we will suggest the stackable solution, and tell the tenant to buy it themselves.

You suggested not taking deductions now and then in two years -- after you've gotten a loan -- going back and claiming those deductions on an amended return.Sounds to me like you are purposefully attempting to mislead lenders, which to me sounds like fraud...

I attempted to contact a contractor to assist me in viewing the home, but did not have much luck.

So wrapping them in duct tape is not my optimal solution.I am willing to get a hepa mask and suit up and attempt to do the work myself but I am a littel hesitant as I have not dealt with this before and not even sure if I am legally allowed to.It is an unfinished basement that is empty except for the boiler and washer/dryer so maybe if I put plastic and seal off the entrance to upstairs wet the asbestos and remove/double bag it it is doable.

After numerous attempts, I was finally successful (calling from a number unknown to them) but they basically told me that I had lost all my money, and lost the opportunity to foreclose on the 10 properties (a loss of the substantial profits they projected), even though I paid them $17,500 for this and they, as my agent, were supposed to be managing it with a fiduciary responsibility to me.

Thanks :) Why attempt to serve her at a PO Box instead of where she lives?

They then needed three attempts to close it after that.

As a buy-and-hold investor, you are attempting to earn an attractive spread on the money you are borrowing from the bank.

As a rule of thumb, I'd make sure that you have each property rehabbed and leased before you attempt to finance the next, which shouldn't be a problem.* Try to avoid hard money if possible.

You have to buy it the way it is.Buyers should attempt to put in any other contingency they want or need.