I had him go ahead and order an apparaisal, to get the ball rolling. 

Best way to get the ball rolling

If I were the listing agent on the property I would also advise my client to cease negotiations with you after being presented with that.

Can you bank roll the sewer repair and continue to pay the mortgage while you either drop your rent price or simply continue to interview for a good tenant?  

@Raphael GomezI don't have a system yet, but I'll certainly take your suggestion into consideration when I start rolling.

No calculator in hand but seemed shake and rake(I call it shake and bake) was double or triple cost of blow in regular stuff.From there it was hard to see IF roll stuff or blow in would be better. 

Alb Rod nobody will be able to give you a good idea on what to offer without knowing the rest of the financials such as rent roll and expenses.

Looking for some good mentors and guidance to get the ball rolling.

I'd ask for a rent roll as well to make sure tenants have been paying rent consistently.In regards the utilities, I'm not how cold it gets in Ohio, but utilities can definitely put a dent to your cash flow.

It's very easy as long as you have some cash to put down and the building(s) have good rent rolls and low operating expenses.