kind of clever, actually, and after all it is his job to get his seller the best price :)Just smile, and remind them that you're just looking for a deal that you can all be happy with.

I may also be looking around for some clever financing ideas because I can only put together just under 15k in capital and living at the new property in not much of an option. 

If you don't have a table to serve 10-12, then show a storage space with portable table and chairs and linens for when large groups stay.  

That's clever investing as most think an option locks up the property (guru stuff).When you buy a property under contract, you need to accept a Special Warranty Deed, that "excepts out" the outstanding lien interests, when that option expires you'll have the same coverage afforded by a General Warranty Deed.

This is the article you're thinking about:6 Clever Ways for House Flippers to Save Big on Remodeling Supplies

IF you have linen closets which negate the need for a vanity a nice looking pedestal sink can add a nice look and keep costs way down.  

I'm not sure I see the attraction, other than a slightly reduced linen cost. 

Now a clever person may say that each half of the "two family dwelling" is entitled to its own garage apartment...

What are your favorite places to get linens?

Carlos, that is a clever idea !