But start and continue networking with other professionals, learn how to analyze deals, and keep pushing. 

Ice dams can sometimes push water back underneath the roofing material.

Good on you, @Lizbeth Castellano for getting the ball rolling.

I also would like to know how I can incentivize lawyers to push for my "very generous offer".

Anything to get the ball rolling for us. 

Start taking your continuing education classes now... your schedule may not be that busy so start fitting them in to learn, connect with others, get to know people, and start knocking off those required classes when you have the time because time flies and you're going to get really busy.Things will start rolling for you soon.

The loan requirements are the same as a traditional FHA loan underwriting (owner occ, 3.5% down at 580 credit or better, Mortgage Insurance, etc) except you can use up to 75% of the rent roll to lower your DTI ratio, and you cannot have any existing FHA loans outstanding unless 100 miles away from subject property.The 203K loan has a lot of upside but is quite cumbersome to navigate.

I would push on your GC on get the renovation done ASAP.

Any other way to maximize in the current year as opposed to rolling the loss forward?

Budka and thank you for pushing me in that direction.