I am willing to spend some money (what I can actually get back if redeemed) as I would like to end up with the land.

Sounds like someone has been spending way too much time on conspiracy theory websites. 

But one fact is certain:  We're spending $2500 /mo on a VACANT home right now and have been for several months...

Once the house is sold, the seller will have to spend the proceeds on their medical care and other normal expenses.

Remember you have to spend xmas with these people...!

What's even more important is how to get those numbers that you put into a calculator or excel sheet.As someone once told me, "garbage in equals garbage out".Spend time understanding where all the numbers come from and that they are valid estimates.Best of luck, feel free to reach out for any questions or anything I could help with!

I look at city budgets and local spending and take very few chances on investments-everthing has to CF well from day one.

I can have someone periodically clean them up.. would that be more cost-effective than spending it on gutters?

The time you spend on your marketing business is time you could've spent learning or networking in real estate.

We set aside a portion of our gross rents each month (usually 15-20%) in a capital improvement account and then we can use that account to fund repairs like roofs, AC units, remodel of kitchens or bathrooms, new appliances etc.You will always find something to spend on , I would spend some time to prioritize your capital spending, and to plan ahead of time for big ticket items to keep your place in top condition.