If you haven't already connected with John Fedro here on BP, he is one of the leaders in investing in mobile homes /  manufactured homes.

Second, what instructions would you give the contractor/inspector to ensure you get the most out of the assessment?

Each listing will have instructions along with it as to who you approach with which law firm for the purchase if you find something you like. 

You may be shocked (good or bad) to find the retail value of the mobile homes. http://www.nadaguides.com/Manufactured-HomesRenting mobile homes is not the same as renting mobile home lots. 

There are very specific instructions about how to prepare for the inspections.

I'm trying to picture the buyer looking at any improvements or the manufacturing date on the water heater and demanding the permit documents.

Question: Should we put in utilities and slab and hold off on framing until Spring, hoping prices will go back down once materials manufacturers get supply back up, or ? 

They have a lot of step by step instructions on how to speak to sellers as well as coaching to help you close the deal with the most Roi.

We haven’t even started on the manufacturing in the area with Volvo setting up shop and Boeing having success showing that the region can compete on a world class scale with its labor pool of right to work employees.

It's best to instruct tenants of what to do in these types of scenarios especially when it comes to plumbing problems.