They were more motivated.

People who have real reasons (motivation) where they do not or cannot fix up their houses, they don't want to list them, and they want to move quickly. 

If they are moving, they are motivated and need to move.

What are some ways things could be structured so as to motivate my seller to act more quickly on what needs to be done before she can legally sell?

Handwritten bandit signs easiest way to get motivated leads 

I still do deals here in Maricopa County but our marketing dollars go a lot further in Cook County (Chicago), the sellers are extremely more motivated and the market is still in transition so in certain areas the deals are plentiful

Currently there are properties with motivated sellers.

I was able to produce emails, text messages, signed agreements, and I had an experienced attorney who specializes in real estate contracts.I've been this route before so I understand the process and the system.

@Iyey Nur mention to them that you're planning to lawyer up, might be just the motivation they need to look a little harder.

@Rusty PollardDude find Joe Fairless, he basically wrote a text book on the subject.The book is called : joe fairless best ever apartment syndication book.