Something similar happened with a door not closing properly, where it was just a simple technique to it closing, unfortunately those small things are on us. 

This is an incredible long term strategy as long as 1031 and Step Up basis remain in place.

I disagree, especially in today's hot market there are likely far more pending homes than there are active homes, it would be incredibly frustrating as a buyer to continually fall in love with the best homes only to learn that they are already under contract. 

For cash out investment property mortgages I have not seen incredibly competitive Conventional loans (at least compared to owner occupied loans) so portfolio held loans from a local bank may be the best option for you @Josh Gregory. 

Who has had success in working with local governments on this, and what sort of techniques and tactics worked? 

I am a broker and I am incredible at what I do however I am not for hire....

Everyone was incredibly happy.

It's incredibly frustrating when tenants refuse to respond, but best of luck to you, and I hope the situation works itself out as quickly as it can. 

Every day while working out, walking the dog, or driving in the car I put on a new podcast and learn about the successes and failures of some incredible investors.

For example, here in the Boise area, we have some incredible First Time Home Buyer Loans but some of them will not allow you to use them as rentals so obviously don't work well for house hacking strategies.