The best idea would be to clean and re-point the bricks (if needed). 

Again, the bank sells loans, not houses.What ends up happening is that people regularly use the bank appraisal for the appraisal contingency in the sales contract.

Tenant is incentivized to keep the apartment clean, ready to show, grant access, etc.

regular financing How did you add value to the deal?

Do it regularly.  

He wants to buy the property himself but he says needs about 1 year to clean his credit record to get a loan.

In the situation you're describing it take me 4 days for a 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom unit unless I'm replacing floor covering in which case it's usually a full week and maybe almost 2 weeks.In 4 days, worst case 5 days, I can get a thorough cleaning and painting, inside and out, even removing doors from hinges if needed.In that time window I can also have a plumber replace a faucet or an electrician replace a bathroom vent fan, minor stuff, if needed.

There were a small amount of negotiations around securing tenants in the downstairs apartment at the price they identified and cleaning up some odds and ends (asbestos abatement, fire safety items, etc.)

Rehab work was fast and thorough and the communication throughout the process was excellent...regular picture updates and videos, etc.

It's not in a bad spot... close to a grocery store in the back of a suburb a little ways away from a clean river, fairly scenic area.