Or will they accept me doing the work myself?

In NJ I cannot accept a pet deposit and security deposit so I decided to add the monthly pet fee.   

Would insurance accept it or even look at it?

In my area, I have bought and resold older homes with minor foundation repair/upgrade because thats what buyers in the area are willing to accept in relation to the charm and character of an older home, however in other areas where older homes like this are not that prevalent, buyers will have completely different expectations as to foundation condition and you could be looking at major upgrades to repair foundation including replacement, or adding sister walls.

I think that the increased rate of failure has to do with a lack of mentors or willingness to accept help and utilize the resources available.

Given the rising costs of housing and others offering above asking price, we accepted the offer.

Convinced them to accept a pre-mls offer How did you finance this deal?

So living there with them would be acceptable. 

People with 800 credit score will call to complain if the neighbors dog is barking, haha.As far as how bad tenants find a place to live, they keep applying until someone accepts them.

Buyers run away from those properties as they accept reduced returns for being PASSIVE.