There are so many shady sellers out there that you meet online, so it's nice to work with folks who will shoot you straight.

.- The system saved us both time and money, allowing us to close more deals.Anyone else tried this?

Save that down payment money you mentioned or go for a multi family at a higher price than the single but have rental income. 

Unemployment was high but I had savings and managed to find work.

MOST things you read online say the VA assumable loan is intended for primary residence and you must occupy the home for certain amount of time.However, according withroam.com which specializes in VA/FHA loan assumptions, you can assume va loans for investment.

As for financing, focusing on saving while learning is smart, but also take time to research creative strategies.

If you have a great-paying, long-term tenant, a small discount can actually save you money in the long run.

Once you are in the habit of not spending so much, with no debt in a few years, you will be able to save and invest like crazy!! 

The rehab took 5 months and I did 90% of the work myself, saving $30k but losing a lot of time.

The auctions, although online now, are live foreclosure auctions, i.e. the auction style sale which is the culmination of the foreclosure process.