Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

Before proceeding, I am seeking your expertise to evaluate whether this investment opportunity aligns with sound financial considerations.

I wouldn't even bother with major cities given the ratios but you likely will get better rental stability pending on asset class but in general deep pocket investors like larger cities for its demand and stability in order to wealth preserve vs cash flow..Investors who want cash flow seek 2nd tier markets..To clarify 5) you meant negative cash flow and not negative cap rate correct?

It’s time to fly and create the prosperity I seek or crash and at least know I took my shot.  

So In SIMPLE terms; you are stating that REGARDLESS of whether the FULL $60K in funds paid to the Seller for the OPTION to buy the home at $300K is APPLIED towards that $300K "Strike Price" reducing the remaining amount due to them to $240K OR if only $30K of the $60K in funds paid to the Seller is APPLIED reducing the the remaining amount due to them to $270K - the Tax Treatment for THEM (the seller) is the SAME on the $60K paid for the OPTION ?

@Alec Jacobs Perhaps start with seeking additional quotes.

Seek lender approval for property transfer2.

I have heard that heat treatment can damage silicone seals in plumbing.

We've seen tremendous interest from investors seeking larger balance investment property HELOC's or home equity lines of credit. 

Make it look like a bid and seek a concession in your inspection findings.