Offer second floor units from the first building scheduled the chance to move over to one of the now vacant units in next building, maybe with a reduced rate, or maybe with a "moving expense" rebate, and allowing them to move back to their original unit when the elevator is again operational.

There are a lot of tools you can use to self manage and reduce the time needed to manage it.

I trust their research.In summary, in the short term, there may need to be a change in Las Vegas residential landscaping to reduce water consumption (lawns, etc.).

Just get a good cleaner and handyperson and keep up on the maintenance of the mechanicals (furnace, water heater etc) and you will reduce problems tremendously. 

I view this as they are giving up something (reduced rent) and deserve some compensation.  

If you have other passive loss that you have been carrying from other investments, that could be used to further defer and reduce the tax.

It feels riskier, but it actually puts you in a better position because, once you have tenants, you'll have a lower cost of living.Once your cost of living is reduced, plow money into your six-month emergency fund until you can afford to live without any income or tenants for six months.

In the meantime while living here, we fixed a ton of issues, remodeled the bathrooms prior to listing our place last weekend.we accepted a very generous offer that we will come out ahead on.That being said, I know short term capital gains taxes are in play, and I’m wondering how I can reduce these taxes as much as possible (legitimately).

If you haven't done it already, call your creditors and tell them you have a medical issue that has caused you hardship and ask them to reduce your interest rates. 

From my lending experience I concur that it is difficult sometimes for investors, especially new investors, to hear that the reason for a reduced loan amount or no loan is because their margins are small or non-existent, thus resulting in future problems for BOTH lender and borrower.