MLS or any listing platform may also have some opportunities there for you, or a broker may have some properties that would fit your criteria. 

Pros:Potential for Bargains: Auctions can offer properties at lower prices than traditional listings.Speed: The auction process is usually quicker than traditional sales, with a defined timeline for closing.Transparency: The bidding process is transparent, and you can see competing bids in real-time.Cons:As-Is Condition: Properties are often sold "as-is," meaning no repairs or warranties.Limited Inspection: There may be limited opportunities to inspect the property before bidding.Financing Challenges: Securing financing for auction properties can be more challenging and may require quick approval.Auction Fees: Be aware of any additional fees, such as a buyer's premium, that could affect the total cost.I hope this helps you out!

My point is that in a market where overall demand is unbelievably strong, the opportunity-cost numbers are not that strong for an all-cash, or any for that matter, acquisition relative to past history. 

These would also not take too much time except for my partner and I both still working full time jobs in addition to managing real estate so we are open to various ideas that might improve our efficiency.

I get you have to pay back the $8,000… but that is just an opportunity cost at this point. 

@Justin Reyes Let me ask you this...If you owned a marketable piece of real estate and no longer cared to own the property what would you rather do: (a) Sell the property, pay off your mortgage and move on to other opportunities; or(b) Sell the property without paying off the loan,  remain liable for the loan as the note signer and trust the buyer will continue to make payments on that loan, and if they don't your personal credit is damaged? 

For reference I work a full-time remote W2 job but I do have the time and bandwidth to do this.

I am currently on an H2B non-immigrant work visa in the hospitality sector and am legally not allowed to have another job other than what is stated on my visa/petition. 

I saw an opportunity to buy because properties were remaining on the market for a long time. 

We have colleges and state jobs that are unlikely to leave the area.