We tried to explain this to VRBO call center reps, but they can't offer anything other than telling us to lower prices to pre-Jan 6 rates. 

@Andrae S Wiggins recommend you upgrade your BP membership to Pro to access the BP Calculators to evaluate rental purchases.Play with the numbers to figure out the purchase price that gives you your target ROI.That's the number you'll need to make an offer at, NOT what the seller is asking.Yes, you will get a lot of rejects, but whoever said investing was easy?

Quote from @Patricia Steiner: There are several lenders who offer low/no closing cost options for first time homebuyers.

The best areas to consider include East Point, West End, Kirkwood, Decatur (outside city limits), and Marietta, each offering a balance of affordability, appreciation, and rental demand.

Also, don't complain about your offer not being accepted - just submit a better one or walk away - the seller doesn't care about anything other than how long its been on the market and how close to ask you are.

On market, $6,000 over ask offer and waived inspections due to the pristine condition of the building and garage.

If they need access to the property immediately, you can offer to leave to them until you are ready to close. 

Also, how effective is their CRM—does it integrate well with other tools, and does it offer automation for follow-ups?

Since you haven't started the project yet, use this time to network with lenders to see who offers the best terms....seasoning, rate, leverage and pre-payment penalty terms. 

These are great programs to use and NY offers a few as well as a couple of Nationwide DPA's and grants.