The GC is a business person who doesn't care about your ARV, LTV, or your budget.

Are there specific qualities or terms you look for that make the relationship a good fit for your investment strategy?

I budget 10% of rent for repairs, maintenance and capex.

I'd be happy to connect further regarding your questions about more specific and nuanced details. 

If you really like the place but you feel that it is priced too high for your budget, instead of saying “it’s priced too high” and insulting the seller, simply say “I absolutely love your place; it is exactly what I want, and I’d really like to buy it.

Keep working, saving money, and buy the best asset that your budget allows.

For a long term investor:Would it make sense if you could buy the home at a steep discount and then let the owner stay rent free for a specific period of time?

I had specifically asked for numbers including mortgage payments and they emailed to me.

I'm not familiar enough with RDU to give you specific areas or submarkets. 

It's been so bad here, that I bought an STR in Indiana with another business partner in 2024 because there are minimal opportunities here - unless you have the ability and budget to extensively source off market properties here.