Were you bidding on the property knowing that the owners were deceased, or it just happened to work out that way?

On most deals we bid on, the bidding would start way, way above our strike price.

It was a weird system that isn't around anymore but we "bid" on it with a realtor.

You can then take that plan to foundation companies and get bids for that work. 2.

If the auction is the 2nd note the 1st will still remain valid and without knowing what that payoff is how do you know what to bid?

I would have personally waited a bit to list in the spring when things are hot and everyone is over-bidding. 

Maybe a property or two they'll do the whole comp analysis with the contracting bid and deliver it, but if you pass twice do not expect them to answer much anymore.I use wholesalers for 85% of the deals I source. 

Back when I was bidding/building and these became the rage, it was astounding to see municipalities in already crowded areas allow the density to (almost) double without taking any steps to provide additional parking or other amenities. 

I would also suggest going the section 8 route on a few of the units in what I would consider more challenging neighborhoods.On maintenance bids being high, negotiate everything.

However, the City initiated the "Buy Into Baltimore" open bid program (which we're interested in participating) through which you can bid/buy city-owned abandoned/vacant properties for redevelopment/resale.The problem is, there are so many blighted neighborhoods in Baltimore, it's tough to know where to start.