I am going build resources in case this recession hits so I may be able to buy some properties with great discounts, but as opportunities become available along the way I will pluck them like fruit from the tree.

Foreclosure auctions tend to be fruitful for experienced investors. 

It is not uncommon for agents to price a home low knowing they will spark many people's interest and receive multiple offers.

Looking for agents in these two areas that can help me assign value and identify the best ones to keep versus sell.

I believe this is standard for agency loan underwriting also.

But now its the other way around, my W2/income is much much lower... my other businesses aren't as fruitful as they were due to things beyond my control.  

As mentioned before I am still a newbie but from my understanding you will have effectively no equity up front and will make a tidy profit should it sell at anything close to it's valued amount.I agree that it might not be the ideal buy to hold deal hence why the above may be the better route enabling you and your wife to get some nice money out to target the market and or properties that meet your investment ideals.Interesting one though and even without the back story will hopefully leave you and your wife with some fruits from her dad.

Maybe he will agree on lower it a bit. and worst thing that could happen you don't get the deal, ( no worries) their Millions of houses. move on and polish your skills, and with that, one day you will become valuable to an investor that will be willing to partner with you.Wish you the best, and I acknowledge you for taking action, I assume you are desperate for your dreams to come quick, but like Warren Buffet Said :“You can't produce a baby in one month by getting nine women pregnant.”Develop that Baby, and you will see him one-day giving fruits...Regards 

And don't forget to factor in your selling costs when you flip properties...as a rough number in my area for starter homes, that's about 8% of ARV allowing for agent commissions, closing costs, potential seller help to first time homebuyer, etc.  

@Melanie Jones it is difficult to find, but look for agents who know about investing, usually they are investors themselves.