Just through casual observation it does seem to me that duplexes and other multi-family take longer to sell.

I'm just going on what I observed.

Ohio allows them, but formalities must be observed as if it were a >3 year lease.

In this competitive market, that auction seemed (based on very preliminary observation, I grant you) like a whole lot of work (and risk) for a limited return.  

I would identify the ones with multiple sales and I would start observing what they are buying properties for.

What I have observed is people tend to be ok with 1% in high appreciation areas and the closer to 2% you get the better off you are.

Interesting conversation guys, glad I was able to sit in and observe.

Curious to hear from any professional mortgage folks, but my observation has been variable soft investment income (notes, other loans, equity investments) is counted if shown on 2 years tax returns (though expect something like only 70% counted and only the lowest amount).

The home ended up appraising since their was 200 sq feet of space I didnt anticipate ($200/sq foot market) and I ended up getting the house for about 50k under FMV. in theory, the high offer, low anticipated appraisal can work (I have observed it on two other Homepath homes).

Have you had any observations like that?