If the property is vacant I would do a landlord’s vacancy policy until you get it rented.

We are considering removing the hedges and filling all these planters with concrete, but I've been warned that the dirt compactor we'll have to use prior to pouring concrete might cause the foundations to crack.Does anyone have experience with something similar and thoughts on whether the compactor would crack (A) the slab, (B) the raised foundation, or (C) both?

Something to consider, if you do not plan on making any improvements to the property prior to your refinancing, the equity you think you may have may not be there.

@Taylor ChiuI think this is a case that you should have talked with someone prior to doing this/setting it up. 

If you have the cash at the end of the year, don't forget to make the Dec 31st purchases for all of the materials you will be using throughout the year to capture them in the year prior.... 

Banks opening accounts for US taxpayers, including a business, have much stricter KYC BSA/AML rules and documentation they have to complete compared to prior to Patriot Act.  

Most HOA's try to rent the unit out to recoup some of their delinquent HOA fees prior to being foreclosed on by the 1st.  

Also keep in mind, with having this much of your own money invested, it may be a good idea to invest in a good umbrella insurance policy on the property. 

The agent value comes in analyzing the value, neighborhood trend/knowledge, how to read/research the seller as to motivation, protective and trap clauses in the wording of the contract, which lenders actually perform, which title companies to avoid, which inspectors to use/avoid, how to negotiate when problems occur prior to closing, etc, etc.....all of which You you are not experienced/competent in.So, You decide.

You can always use prior photos from when it was vacant.