I don’t have any security cameras on site and would prefer not to have them there long-term but perhaps it makes sense to have a camera short term in case someone damages the drying concrete?

Non-QM loans (what these deals often are financed with) are drying up since they are seen as risky.

Rodent infesations, high moistture, two bad water heaters, etc etc.I sent an adjusted offer, 100K less the asking price, or a second offer that is still 10k higher than the closest comp, but under the contingency that I receive a $30K credit for repairs.I'm expecting a big middle finger, but I'd rather lose $600 for the inspection than what I'd lose from purchasing this at a ridiculous price! 

podcasts dried up?

I'm a newbie investor looking to close on my first deal in the next 3-6 months (fingers crossed).

Then since it was not your decision - you can always point the finger at someone else and say that is the reason for the failure.

The prices have gone up a bit since then, but the post construction appraisal on a dry lot are coming out to about $375k and rents about $2300 or so.

My plan, as of now, is to pay him to provide "comps" of similar properties in the area showing that current sales CAP rates are lower these days and cross my fingers and hope the banker and appraiser sees it my way.

A bit more if you include a pest and dry rot inspection (and maybe a bit more for you because LA is a very high cost place to live and everything is more expensive).

Doing a seller financed deal without due diligence now will be risky if you are seen as a preditory lender when the loan becomes due and the borrower fails to meet the obligation and they decide to go to court over any foreclosure.Good luck...and now, I have some ribs to eat, lol, so that kmeans sticky fingers.....later, Bill