As to the meat of the original post itself, most posters agreed that it is not necessary to be an evil landlord to make good money at this business.

With that in mind, I would not necessarily need an agent to represent me at a wholesale transaction right? 

The previous ownership and management failed to capitalize on both of these opportunities, which leaves plenty of meat on the bone for us.

I feel like my lack of experience in the real estate industry puts me at a disadvantage.  

The first one makes no sense, as other have said - no meat on the bone, but if you decided there was, if it's listed by an agent, you can not use your own contract.

Bill Bonner of Rogue Economics has been stuck on his giant ranch in Argentina since maybe March, 2020, but has had no problem sending his daily dispatch to subscribers (and eating farm grown meat and vegetables and eating farm made cheese, wine and ???)

and trust that you would deed it back to me (at no cost)... and you trust me that I would make all your mortgage payments (sort of like a subject-to transaction as best I know them). 

Doesn't sound realistic to me at all. 

MIP is very high (I live in San Diego) and while I've only been in my home (duplex, owner-occupied) for a little over a year, I have made some upgrades and the local appreciation might have me at around 85% LTV. 

What put me at ease is the owners current address is also listed for sale (mint house based off photos) so I’m assuming he’s selling his assets for personal reasons.