Your idea of sacrifices (accepting free cars, buying Nike shoes, Coach bags, Premium Cable/Internet, Etc.) are pipe dreams for the vast majority of Americans and I understand why people would mock your 'sacrifices'.

More than anything I could feel his honesty,sincerity, and authenticity over the phone and that matched up with my values. 

Today at-least people know they need to buy assets that are cash flow positive , One the bottom opens up - don't be the Guy / Gal  holding the bag ..

I think the cat's out of the bag.

Dude could take your money, whip a carton out, and drop into a brown bag in two seconds flat.

Cleveland is a mixed bag for me.  

And that’s not what we’re here for.The Winning Strategy Is… To be the one that the seller WANTS to work with, because you:Actually listened, and really understood the seller’s problem and motivations, and really worked to solve those problemsBuilt trust and a real connection with the seller, making him feel comfortable and valuedIn short, you didn’t come across as a pushy slime bag, like most of your competitors do In a hot market, your negotiation and rapport-building skills give you the edge you need, to make and get great deals that your competitors just can’t.

If you think that their activities go beyond recreational use (large quantities in the house, visible scales or bags, people coming and going in excess) it's time for a more serious conversation. 

I'd empty the contractor trash bags into dumpsters other people owned (where I knew they'd be picked up the next day).  

Still a Californian or newbie on BP will be convinced it has great cash flow and be the next bag holder unfortunately.