They can hold your earnest money hostage but you can consider that tuition and move on (assuming it's not too big).

But my primary objective (MISSION) is to HELP those who are in 'distress...' or otherwise can't buy a home, or resell due to minimal equity, etc. so they don't end- up bankrupt, in foreclosure, or doing a short- sale, etc."

Sample all that BP has to offer but beware the shiny object syndrome.

The objective is to be able to reuse the cash invested over and over again.  

It can be objectively measured by comparing travel habits, spending habits and the bonuses that come with them.

My objective is to win this deal but I'd really prefer not to tie up capital with the down payment.Thanks in advance for any input you all may have!

@Jordan l@Jordan Leithart If you're going to invest out of state, my advice is not to choose a market based on the fact that you spend a lot of time visiting family there but base it instead on whether the market fits your criteria and offers the best chance of achieving your overall financial objectives.

They may reject the idea outright, but you need to be prepared to counter their objections right away. 

@Fred Heller @Rhett TullisNot sure I understand the objection.

My objective is to build a nest egg that I won't touch for 20 years or so, and I have a pretty small appetite for risk in this portfolio.