So think minimal contingencies,  flexibility to let the short sale approval process happen but then quick time from approval to close.  

The renovation costs may include a contingency reserve and renovation-related costs.Contingency Reserves: Contingency reserves 10 % required for any unforeseen cost overruns that may occur during construction.Unused contingency reserves that were financed into the loan will be applied to the principal balance of the loan.

Put an offer in contingent on inspection.

Auction.com wants a statement of some kind from the lender stating there are no contingencies on granting me the loan, or something like that before they'll send me the contract.

I want to buy my first property using a first time homebuyers grant , but I am concerned with contingencies that come with them ( have to live there for a time period, can’t refinance, and so forth).

The Florida Association of Realtors standard contract probably already has reasonable and fair contingencies built into it with boilerplate boxes you can check and blank spots for the number of days, I know the California Association of Realtors standard contract does. 

I would suggest that you make the purchase of the property contingent on the trashed unit being vacant.

Even if you set aside $4,568 extra for contingencies, you WILL spend $4,569.

The listing broker said they got a full price offer for a mortgage, but they have contingencies (they want all tenants out).

I terminate while I was still under my inspection contingency.