They will definitely have one for July 4th and they have them very commonly.

If this is the only capital you have access to, option 1 may be preferable, since that leaves you with some available capital should an emergency arise.

We had one in our SFR for 12 years & reglazing was a common reoccurrence.

We don't yet have the density issues that other cities like Portland (where ADU's are quite common) have.  

I don't think it's too common to have first and last months rent as security deposit.

It all depends on what you consider "a good deal" multifamily is fairly common in the San Gabriel Valley, and while the properties tend to be old, many are fairly well maintained.

An appraisal contingency is common; no one will balk at it but in a seller's market, the seller can just wait for the next buyer, a different appraisal, possibly a different outcome - rather than negotiate with you.  

I'm a landlord in Ma and I want to put in surveillance cameras with voice recording in common areas/hallways.

In a way, we share a common link.

There are some expedited situations that can arise out of a Sheriff's Sale, and that's about all.