Very inspiring :)

It’s worth reaching out to your local tax office to explore options.

(One virtual and one local).   

I'm sure some local banks will do higher especially with a strong relationship but don't think I will fall into that category.

It forced me to reach out to developers, to engineers dozens of local builders and most important like minded individuals.

I found this deal as an off-market property through my local network in the Hamptons.

Avoid PMI and then go to a local credit union and get a heloc after closing to gift the money back.Have this as a tool in your tool belt but pursue use of the 3.5% FHA, knowing that you will be at a competitive disadvantage if you are competing with non FHA buyers, then you can call in the favor from your gift person.Just know that if someone gifts you down payment money, your bank will require them to sign a letter stating that it is in fact a gift that doesn’t need to be paid back.

I would like to speak with local investors, real estate agents, property managers, lenders, etc. from the area.

I refinanced it into a  5% 30-year mortgage with a local bank as the seller would only carry the loan for a year.

I’m not local, so I’m trying to get a feel for what it’s actually like making deals in this market right now.