I think keeping your powder dry and buying only in buyers markets during or right after recessions is a viable "strategy".  

However I always kept my powder dry and was prepared to close if they tried to end run me...I only had this happen to me once..

It cost's under $15 and it works GREAT.That way when they let it in to pet it, the flea problem is solved.https://www.amazon.com/Harris-Diatomaceous-Powder-Duster-Included/dp/B0728JL9SQ/Good Luck!

I really did type the letters in in my title,,,they disappeared someplace. wasnt trying to invent new speak.Got burned on this house big time with a worthless contractor who skipped out on me with my money,,,so I am back to diy since about all I can afford.Even after telling people how it is to be done, turn your back and they are back to doing things there way,,fast dirty and substandard leaving me to clean up what they screw up.Afraid if somebody did this they would be using mastic instead of thinset powder,,,not back buttering,,,not using waterproof membrane.My friend who helps me some says I cant use 'Redguard' any more cause he doesnt like the smell.

It is a white powder.

Install a small sump pump into the sump-pit you've created and pipe the discharge in small diameter pipe  (1/2" or 3/4" PVC or PEX)  to a far distance from the house.Cut a plywood or other material cover for the top of the sump-pit-bucket assembly and lay it over the top.Then wear a mask while you spread powdered lime down there all over all the dirt.  

While I agree cash is meant to be deployed, it's not the rate it earns or doesn't earn in the dry powder stage, it's the opportunity to buy what others can't. 

And I am not talking about the delayed financing approach.from my point of view.. paid for training is fine if your not going into debt to do it.. your not using up capital that you need to actually buy real estate.. if you have plenty of dry powder then sure we all have to learn somewhere and somehow.. 

The home will certainly qualify for the stringent rules of a VA, plus you can get it near-100% financed and keep your dry powder for the fixer-upper you are looking to acquire.

@Samara Huntley You will love the powder here, it is awesome!