We wanted to pull levers that we could see as being incredible super-power types of levers.

You can offer ~ $200 DDFee.You can offer to SHORTEN the DD Period( if the water/power utilities are on , see how fast your home inspector can get there for a verbal pass/fail to you ) To be followed by the written report --BE THERE ON SITE DURING THE INSPECTIONS.Really you have to see what the seller will accept.

@Daniel Mendez yes your electrician will need to be certified in most cases, or the city wont turn your power on.

Since I’m licensed, I have the power to save this money and simply list it myself.

The building will be empty at the end of the month.2) The seller started looking for a tenant, but a BP contact let me know he'd be interested in selling and knew I was interested in more commercial space (power of BP networking!)

After a property is livable (fully enclosed, power available, safe water, heated, etc.) all rents collected have been used only as necessary for property maintenance and to pay property taxes.

How do you expect them to act when they have the power and need their help. 

I have changed some light fixtures and the 240VAC water heater.I did install a double pole 240VAC breaker and run temp power out to a large camper.Haven't had the need to do do anything more.

I'm also a BIG believer in the power of local networking.

There should be a good bit of equity from the sale to allow you to move forward in real estate investing from a very powerful position.