Honestly the appraisal is not going to reveal a ton to you about the actual value.

Banks tell you what is needed up front and hard money folks are a bit less revealing  or up with information.  

If the inspection reveals something crazy and you don't want to deal with it, i.e. mold, asbestos, termites... you can say no thanks2) Re-negotiate the offer.

Each step you take reveals a new horizon.

Here are my thoughts and questions on this:1) It would seem doing something in the grey or beige safe spectrum of colors would be wise, I did "Teepee Brown" on the last house, and would like try a light gray / greige color2) Grey seems like it might clash with the red brick, this brings me to 3)3) I am wondering whether or not to paint / cover the brick features shown in a white / stucco material - this will add a small amount of cost4) Note there is 3/4" Oak Floor underneath the carpet, which will reveal and fix up towards the end5) At first I considered trying to demolish the brick planter, but after more consideration it will be cheaper and easier to "roll with" the feature...

In trying to communicate what this looks like and justify her explanation that this is not an increase in the purchase price-the attorney sends over the HUD- the HUD reveals  the commission break down and brokerage representing the seller is scheduled to receive roughly $2200 more in commissions and keep EMD of $2500. 

However,it's interesting to note the trial for it is only $1.00 for 15 days but no where is it revealed the total costs AFTER the trial period.

Typically if you are buying a Short Sale or REO, the Seller will not accept a contract that involves an assignment.2) You don't want to  reveal to the C Buyer the amount of profit you are making.

The process really will stretch you and reveal weaknesses in yourself and your partners.

Tax benefits - talking to your CPA will reveal that not only can you use expenses, depreciation and interest payments to reduce your taxable income from real estate but you can also you the same to shelter income from your W2.