Had to move an electrical box, move a dryer, move a gas line,etc.  

If your goals are cash flow only (as in you want mail box money to live off of), then finding that cash flow market would be your best bet.

They were likely purchased from whatever big box store was around back then as I don't remember ordering them online. 

If an agent/title company/escrow officer, then your "safe" until process resolves.If you gave it directly to seller, they probably already spent it, making it more likely you'll have to work out a deal to continue the purchase or take them to small claims.

@David Kesem, I am taking you on a tangent here, but are you sure that is money well spent?  

How does it take 2-3 months to get the money to the landlord, but the same amount of money can be spent on a hotel.

(As in, if youre still at this part after the new year, you spent too long.)

Stick a lock box on the property for them to place keys in has worked for me before.

Partnering with a local realtor that knows the market, working with finance companies that will finance via an LLC (some protections), and passing on issues that do not check all my boxes. 

Don't waste your money resources, time resources as both are more valuable spent elsewhere!