At that point, the clock will restart by 5 minutes after every counter bid, until the bidding stops.With mortgage foreclosures you'll want to guarantee that the property is vacant to avoid going through a messy eviction battle.  

I encountered this question all the time.

It's not over until the end of their lease term, or the rerenting of their unit earlier, or the remaining tenant agreeing to accept 100% responsibility for the unit.

Walking through, I can see that owner is the type that spares little expense with his own properties. 

I wouldn’t fix the driveway, the major hole does not seem to be in a walking path nor where someone would enter or exit a vehicle.

Second, don't get hung up on what if's.

Currently most investors Fannie/Freddie, FHA , VA, USDA and most portfolio notes allow up to 6% in RE agent commissions.

There will likely be dozens of follow-up calls so don't be discouraged if you can't close someone upon first contact.All the best!

@Annabelle Rozen  I believe the stability of the rental market within Allentown is rather robust. 

I got the commitment letter and Chase will do funding tomorrow.