Jim, it's pretty common for beginner investors to work on conventional residential financing for their first deals, until they come up against one of the following:Lender is too slow for the requirements of the seller, or the time frame you have to get it re-soldCondition of the property is too poor for conventional financingThe process of borrowing conventional is too mind bending for your patience levelOther stuffDon't be afraid to call hard money lenders and talk to them, but write out a list of questions beforehand. 

Over the next 5 years, I've seen my Condo more than double in value, driven by a hot Nashville market.Most recently, I moved out to Central Oregon (Bend) for almost 2 years.

Also noticed you are in Bend,Oregon now.

I am interested in buying a SFH in South Bend, IN, I would like to offer 70k but I can only get a minimum loan amount of 80k (60k loan with 25% down) from a conventional mortgage.

For instance, we can't proclaim "we have a buyer who wants to buy your home" unless we really actually do have a buyer (though, I know many a realtor bending this rule).

If that is the case then should you bend over backwards to make sure it is in an LLC?

If you are doing the mailing yourself then head down to the post office during an non busy hour and bend someones ear about using the best method to get you mail to your desired destination.

Hi Ben, I'm a Realtor in Bend and if you like, I can put you in touch with an agent in your area who will thoroughly know the various markets and have great insight for you.

Looking for some assistance from a Agent or Property Manager in the Bend/Redomond area.  

He is in the south bend Indiana market, and I am going to explore that market since he is there.