I tried to create rapport with the owner over the phone but waited to present my real agenda only in person.   

With a Conventional Loan you can buy a SFH, Duplex, Triplex or Quadplex with as little as 5% Down if it is your primary residence as long as you have the intention of occupying one of the units for 1 year after closing escrow.This is the strategy I have personally implemented and have assisted many of my investor clients in doing the same. 20% Down is also beneficial as it keeps your payment low but it does limit your ability of buying more real estate faster.i would be more than happy to discuss the different strategies with you over the phone or in person.

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

I’m not a former IRS person.

Not talking about you personally.

Personally, I would hang on to the cash.  

Dumb question - but are these auctions online only, or in-person? 

Have you calculated what your (monthly nut) is you need to survive business wise and personally?

I purchase my personal investments to maximize their equity and hold long term.

I have a situation where a person I know is moving out of the country and would be looking to put their home for sale in the summer.