If there is no further motivator (default, money issues, reason for moving), then he may run you around the block a few times before you realize that he doesn't want to sell within the range you are willing to buy.I agree with the others....get to the root of his motivation. 

At the root of most forms of distress usually is some sort of financial problem, marital problem, legal issues etc.

I'm pulling up roots from RE and focusing on NPNs as a way to get into the deals earlier. 

But let's put all of that on hold for a minute.What's really at the root of all of many people seeking a turnkey solution is that they either don't have the capital to enter into real estate in their current market (i.e. you in San Francisco) or you're seeking cash-on-cash returns that are hard to achieve in the Bay Area, San Diego, NYC, etc.  

But there a applicant might have a 840 score but they can't save up 60k for a downpayment or not ready to put roots down yet and needs to stay mobile.

It also depends on where you are in your life now single versus putting down roots.

Got aggressive and revisited my wholesale roots (I'm primarily a rehabber - but my projects are taking a bit longer to close these days).

Hi BP,I'm a novice investor planting my roots in Pittsburgh, PA.

Granted, everyone has their own needs and wants, but in my opinion, if you can get over not needing to live or invest in the more trendy affluent areas, there are some opportunities to be had for those who love SoCal and want to lay down some roots in this city.

Are you thinking of planting some investment roots in Florida?