Sorry to hear about your wife, and the deal. 

I am researching my first deal in town (a foreclosure), and hoping to slowly but surely acquire properties for cash flow and retirement security. 

I understand I wouldn't get the benefit of tax deductions, but what else am I missing that makes this a good deal? 

You'll never get your best deal until you understand what the other side is dealing with. 

Specifically, I am interested in learning more about syndications, working with lenders, lawyers, CPAs, and other professionals involved in cross-border real estate deals.

Our last deal we engaged a mortgage broker that also brought a Private Equity LP (Limited Partner) to the deal. 

it's actually tough to find cash flowing deals anywhere right now. 

Quote from @Danielle DeCormis: Working on a deal where the home has been foreclosed on by the bank but they indicate they have no knowledge of the solar panels or whether there is a lien. 

If he had quoted you 20% higher would you still have done the deal? 

So you will work on your credit while learning to underwrite deals.