I am open to any and all feedback as I learn the ropes in respect to non-standard finance options to get deals done. 

With all due respect - if you do not have experience in rehabbing property, a 1940's house that needs complete rehab is not the place to start.

Also, with respect to the city - how is the city on zoning and code violations?

Respectfully,Dan Harrison

Consider partnering with whose knows the city, someone who the owners you are approaching can relate.With respect to Sheriff Sales, be patient and keep at it.  

. , @William Collins and @Austin Fruechting did in 5, 2.5 years and 7 years, respectively, buy using BRRRR (Austin was also featured in BP Podcast #239)https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/223/topics/459415-500k-net-worth-in-5-years-im-30-today?

And even though I know 99% of the time they will never qualify to be my tenants, I will treat them with respect and welcome them into my home and offer them the option to look around.  

I respect his advice but I am hoping to connect with investors over in London ( a few I have my eye on) and see if there is a potential mentorship relationship I could form. 

If my offer is close to the "top offer," but I do not have a Buyer's agent, the Listing agent should lobby for my offer, because the Seller actually Nets MORE money.And I respectfully disagree with the concept that a Buyer's agent is "free" to me as the Buyer.

We received two offers of $2.3MM and $2.6MM, respectively.