Perhaps the second story was the apartment and ground floor was supposed to be storage but then got illegally converted, etc.

Denying entry is a lease violation and grounds for eviction.

They will be anchors for boots on the ground.

Are these ground-mount system or roof-mount? 

I would recommend them for Ground Up or Fix & Flip transactions!

The ground floor is occupied by a commercial restaurant, and the upper floor is designated as SRO (Single Room Occupancy) under a pre-existing non-conforming use.

So the thing about the roof is that it continues down such that it's much lower to the ground than the third floor windows. 

Comparing potential returns and factoring in tax benefits definitely adds a valuable dimension to the decision-making process. it's a great reminder that keeping things grounded in math and personal situation is important. 

I haven't found much helpful information in my search so far.I've purchased and rebuilt three homes in the past, but I've never done a new build from the ground up.

Most glaring issues to me are:- DWV pipe leak- Some outlets aren't grounded in both unitsWhat are things you've seen in the past that were real causes for concern/concessions in closing the deal?