And it will be really unpleasant. 

In my experience, they are usually very eager to do whatever it takes to move in your place and that always gives me an unpleasant feeling.

I thought about the "natural" approach but know little that I do, I'm sure they can catch on that I would be seeking the knowledge they have experienced, by my series of questions.I don't want to come off creepy or unwanted while searching.

If emotional attachment is an issue, or if the move is unwanted but necessary, the sellers agent might be able to speak to some of that, provided they seller has given permission.  

Will that create unwanted turnover?

It is in human nature to not wanting to believe in unpleasant outlooks - take the 2007 crash.

In this case, had prices not come back down significantly, it is unlikely that anyone with less than a 6-figure income could afford to buy a home in desirable markets today.There are many unpleasant events aside from financial recessions that cause devastation and suffering, but the alternative is the status quo.

I have heard the same thing about apartment owners & managers compiling a list of unwanted evicted tenants and have run into some issues with doing this.

Seems like a massive amount of risk inheriting a tenant to try and keep their $500... that $500 will be nothing in the grand scheme of owning a property and I would have gladly given that up (if you even get to keep it in the end) for someone to remove an unwanted tenant.

Will,Thanks, if you don't mind I will PM you with the details (and update this thread) as I get them.Rents are steady in the area at around $850 for 3 br units, this has 3/3, and conservative after repair market value is $175-200k.Not to get ahead of myself but...If it was to short sale, how would I position myself to be THE buyer and limit any unwanted competition?