On a similar note, the house will be rented at the time of appraisal, ideally the renter will be keeping it in good shape and clean but has anyone used any specific tips in the past to ensure the house is in the best condition possible for the appraisal?

The extent of those was based on overall condition of house.  

In normal conditions that wouldn't be a big problem, but you should be getting a discount on price for the headache you are going to have to deal with. 

Upon letting pest control into their apartment that Monday, I discovered that their unit was not kept in sanitary conditions.

The only knowledge of the property/condition is from public record and just driving by. 

Are the driveway and walkways in good condition?

Properties under 100K are high risk singles or doubles in tough areas.It’s important you understand what areas you are getting into and what the risk is on each property.I have seen a ton of investors chase what we call “paper returns”They look great on a spreadsheet but reality can be painfully different.Location is the first most important category, asset condition is second, returns are third.You have to have a grading system and an analysis system in place to find a great property.

This gives you yet another independent person to verify their condition (the property inspector being the first one).

It seems to be mid flip, so I am skeptical on the property's actual condition.

Purchase price is 750k as is condition it is worth 800+ ARV 1,100,000My contract is 1/31/2021 I have asked the seller for a 15 day extension but he has not signed it yet.