You will find some BP authors promoting 100% leverage (NOT me--I play it somewhat conservative).

I'm currently working on a income producing quadplex deal in Tampa, FL in which I've convinced the seller to carryback 40% of the purchase price. I contacted 2 guys who lend hard money in my market whom through past d...

It is possible to buy in a buyer's market, you just need to work a lot harder to find the deals and most importantly be disciplined enough to pass on the ones that aren't deals.

Generally this is to make sure you aren't borrowing it from someone who isn't co-signing the loan.

There aren't many places I don't like anymore.

The pro is that you typically can pay a lot less because you are dealing with shady characters who aren't going pay tax on it possibly/often illegal aliens, unlicensed contractors, skipping inspections, etc.

Students aren't CR-1, but you could easily check if you know the visa type (which is in their passport).As for SSN, not sure if they get one, they'll get something but it may take a few weeks.

If you don't have buyers lined up and you are negotiating a price with the seller, if you aren't embarrassed by the price you are trying to get the seller to commit to, you are offering to much.

They have my  best interest at heart, but they aren't constructive about it. 

However, I have just finished reading the E-myth: Real Estate Investor which is a great book and Than was the co-author.