My question is motivated in part by experience with tenants I have who are first generation immigrants from Africa.

I don't want to drag out the removal of the items, because they aren't motivated to change the situation, or think I won't do anything about it after they sign a lease. 

If not, how are they conducting business there and if not that might be a potential motivator to get them to hand over the deposit $$.

Learn something new everyday on BPI would try getting them to talk see what their goals and motivations are.

This puts the out of state investor at a disadvantage and if things begin going south, they can unwind pretty fast and the out of state investor ends up as a motivated if not a desperate seller.

I have completed 3 deals recently where I called the seller up and found them to be more motivated and willing to take a lower offer several months later.

It comes down to if you're self motivated enough to take online classes.

Or, refusing to close might motivate the sellers to renegotiate or take more serious action to get him out. 

Plus, while we cannot create motivation to sell, you can be the first name that comes to mind when there is motivation.Hope this is helpful!

It just takes dedication, education, & motivation.