I would do the work of manually looking through other listings in your area.

The next day we fired our PM and haven't looked back since.

I have just read through the four years of this thread and found some great tips, thank you to the OP @Thomas Youngman and all the content others have provided.

Here are some tips to help you negotiate effectively:Know Your Numbers ColdBefore entering any negotiation, understand the financials of the deal inside and out.

Any guidance or tips would be greatly appreciated!

You can't run a credit/criminal without the social.

Best tips are take it slow and make sure you have significant reserves when you leave your w2 also don't buy a company car if you already have a car just to say it's for work.

How are values changing compared to the rest of the local market? 

You might also meet title agents who have resources on, say, foreclosures or probates…and might recommend lenders who actually lend on more difficult projects (as the title companies also know which lenders can close and which are difficult).I also go visit open houses to see what sorts of finish to put on my renovations or to look for the next house or area in which to purchase.  

I truly believe there’s so much opportunity down here & I’d be so excited to connect with people.Keep up the great work & let’s stay in touch.