If you brought your spouse and 2 kids with you, and you could argue all of your argue of your time on the trip was looking at real estate, and your personal business and activity circumstance defends being able to immediately deduct it and not treat it as a start up cost... likely 75% of much of the travel costs (airfare, food, etc) would be non-deductible. 

It’s small stuff that’s compounded: first they had a non-functioning vehicle dropped at the back of the property after they totaled it.

, my ID and documentation that shows that I am the owner of the property such as a closing statement.I called again this morning, Monday, only to be transferred to voicemail, so it looks like customer service for when your account is locked in non existent.

On a side note, I am not an expert on Manteca, Turlock, Modesto, and Sacramento areas, perhaps someone can chime in on those.

Remember, the notion of amassing wealth without investing is a dangerous myth perpetuated by self-proclaimed experts.

You start well, but adding a bit more value upfront, such as positioning yourself as someone who "specializes in helping homeowners sell quickly and hassle-free," could increase receptiveness.Asking if they’re "hoping" to sell the house is smart and non-aggressive.

In contrast, property tax liens are non-negotiable and must be paid in full to avoid losing the property.

He is the Tampa Bay local expert and can be a valuable resource to you on your team! 

So my personal take: If you feel like having a non-contingent offer will allow you to be more competitive and save $10k+ on the new home because of a bidding war/multi-offer situation, then it may make sense. 

Hey Sara, with 3 of 4 tenant non-paying you've definitely got your work cut out for you.I don't know what work is being done right now but in my experience non-paying tenants aren't exactly cooperate when contractors.My suggestion would be to get rid of the non-payers ASAP.