I assume the reason for this is so that people do not have their trash bins in the front of their properties. 

The fact that we have to bond it off is so disappointing to me. 

Your work situation opens up a lot of doors as far as potential for investing/house hacking goes!

This is so amazing I actually went to my office to reply from a computer.

Conventionals at least go down as far as 5% normally, and in certain cases as low as 3% (I think those are special first time buyers / low income). 

That said, I don't know what market you are in and unless it is So Cal, I don't know your market.

As far as area, east ridge is rough but slowly coming around.

They are also sold as-is so will likely need rehab so I’m looking at loan options (maybe fha rehab). 

as mentioned above there should be boiler plate mandatory mediation for these circumstances.. but as long as U dont sign the release the money just sits in title company account.. after some time with no resolution  ( At least in OR and WA which usually is very close to CA) money is then interpleaded to the courts for disposition then you both lawyer up.. these rarely go that far as lawyer fee's exceed the amount your arguing about.but splitting the baby in some manner is for sure a very common outcome if you dont want the drama.

But since it is so close to West Hartford Center and Blue Back Square it still feels like it has potential.