Depending on how the ROFR is worded, the seller may be required to first negotiate a specific deal with a third-party buyer and then freeze that transaction momentarily while the holder of the ROFR is given a chance, for a limited time, to buy the property at the same price and terms.

But chances are they probably didn't know it was done poorly.

They'll be happy to interview with you if they think there's a chance of doing business down the road.  

So the seller offered me the chance at getting a another developer to do this project.

Chances are if I make it to this stage and spending my time I will be placing an offer on the property.

Is there a wholesaler fee in there by chance?

I'm OK with it if there's a very good chance I'll make money back, but I don't ever do it lightly. 

@Rodney Kuhl so what other areas have good cash flow with a chance of appreciation.  

If I knew there was a chance that I'd work as an inspector within the next year, I would invest the time/money now.

But without anything in writing, just a "yes" on the phone, moving forward with attorney expenses, contracts, and anything else, was taking a big chance.