If you don't occupy the property, then you'll have to pay 20% down.

They’re “meaner” than me so they charge late fees (I get 1/2), file pay or quits, and increase rents faster and further than I would.

You will have to pay all the usual expenses associated with buying a property: transfer taxes, government fees, title company/attorney costs, as well as a "hammer fee" which goes to the auction house.In theory yes, you could win something for a few thousand dollars.

We have taken over LOTS of occupied units with under paying tenants.

Expect to keep paying.

Why then do they pay $35,000 to obtain what’s basically a sales position?  

The 70% rule helps investors determine the maximum price they should pay for a property.

They also discussed a capital call but instead decided to borrow more money to pay the bills.

You live in one room, rent out the others, and pay your expenses with the income.

In North Carolina, any contract is a sign unless it expressly states that it's not for whatever reason.also, don't be afraid to pay the $300 for an attorney to sit down with you and answer your questions about what you're trying to do.