Then there's the issue of electricity demand...It's just like gambling: really good when you're ahead, but the house always wins in the end.Curious, what is the (perceived) issue of electricity demand you refer to?

Best I can say is what was the perceived expectation going in regarding the repairs?

This is problematic for me obviously, and I don't want to be perceived as some sort of pushover.

With anything that could be a perceived negative, as long as the guests know up front you're in good shape.

Ask them how they perceive the foundation to be (important)4.

Funny another thread just started "Has anyone actually done tax sale overages in WA" I do tax sale and while I am familiar with overages I have stayed away because I think it is perceived as a slimy way to do business. 

It's a crazy scenario but if you have no skin in the game there is nothing really tying you to the property other than a perceived future profit, which may or may not come to pass.Now, having said that, after a few deals are under your belt with that lender I bet things could change to better suit your needs :)Regards, Lenny

You need to meet folks there and get to know them.I'm not sure I'm buying the valuation you are suggesting, if homes sell for 10K even with repairs I doubt they would hit 100K, not without 80 or 85K in materials and labor.Some vets are on drugs, not all, I wouldn't even go there, it's not the general assumption.Sorry to hear of your MIL, but I wouldn't bring that up either, others may perceive you as being disparate and to negotiate a deal you can never appear to be disparate.Find a partner, most likely someone who is in the area working on a house today could be one to cut a deal with.Get an option on another property, you don't have funds to be messing with auctions.You could go to the auction too, just to meet other investors who buy, you offer the construction side on terms rather than hourly or contract for the job.

The seller's perceived value or asking price is totally and completely irrelevant.

The tough part is some of the best agents may not work with you unless they perceive you're serious.