So I end up wasting credits sometimes. 

Unfortunately these do cost more and tend to dry out in the can, causing waste.

You can, but if there is one you don't like; then why bother putting an offer in on it and wasting everyone's time? 

I’m taking a big (but temporary) pay cut in my move to SC (please withhold your judgment - it was a very carefully made decision).

Do you think I am wasting my time for this for 34k profit if I am spending close to 25 k in cash? 

You learn a lot and can cut out costs and save more for cash flow.

With the market turning, they have cut headcount by something like 50% last I saw. 

I have seen money pass and wasted that could have been growing right now.

If you just send the standard "will buy your house for cash" postcards, or do generic bandit signs, or canned PPC internet leads, you will waste all of your time on crap "leads" that aren't real.

I am not sure about Newport News but in my market, you'll need 5-10% of the purchase price to get the deal in contract.Without a contract or a Real Estate license in VA, it could be a waste of your time to go out looking for a buyer.