The costs to purchase and hold real estate are continuing to increase requiring most Americans to devote nearly 50% of their income to housing expenses.

If not, then of course the seller is free to do it. 

I think I would need to borrow at least $190,000 or more to complete the rehab.

We have a pretty solid lease that has served us well on our properties but on the most recent move-out by a long-term tenant that always paid early, we had to clean from floor to ceiling and everything in between. 

I’d love to hear from those who are actively flipping right now—what’s changed?

I'd like to approach them with purchasing the building but I'm assume they're not wanting to sell it until after the owner's death due to the step up basis.I have first right of refusal but what type of creative financing can I offer so that we agree upon a sale and price beforehand?

Can I still get the same tax benefits in regards to depreciation?

An opportunity has come up to purchase a 16 unit apartment.

What can I do to discourage this behavior? 

I can't specifically help you with regards to Irvington, New Jersey but I would definitely recommend going to your local REIA group meeting and asking who other investors there use.