One of the landlord/tenant attorneys in your locality would have a better sense of how the local judges would view the situation.

Would you suggest paying a contractor to come view the property with me to get an idea?

So, there's more to talk about before I could give you fully informed guidance, but at the bird's-eye view I'd say it makes sense to consider HELOC and fixed 2nd options on your current primary, then parlay that capital into the next investment purchase. 

@Curt Davis Thank you for that point of view, it was something I wasn't completely clear on as well.

I don't much care for yard work, maintenance, I like to travel, we have a great view of the city, & there is SO MUCH included with our rent.  

While viewing the home, I decided that I wanted to keep it for myself to serve as my primary residence for a few years.

The owner could be doing a bit of rehab on those units, so they are off market for a bit.Your best bet is to view the building with an EXPERIENCED muti-family professional (Read Investor, Property Manager, Asset Manager etc.) who can look at the building and offer advice.Good Luck!

Is there any sort of "grace period" so that this isn't viewed as commingling funds?

While viewing the home, I decided that I wanted to keep it for myself to serve as my primary residence for a few years.

If you can't view it, then no other potential buyer can, nor can the seller, nor could the listing agent.