I didn't want to put in my estimates, because I didn't want to influence what other people's analysis was.

What matters is the quality of the opinions you accept and allow to influence your decisions.I have people around me achieving success doing fix and flips / rehabs as well as buy-and-holds.Debt reduction is always recommendable.

However I've been influenced a lot lately to consider the tax-write off lease option, especially if you use it for business.So it may be more of a question for a CPA but what is there anyone that can shed a little light on this?  

Look at your investing goals - how might others improve your success in attaining these goals.Look at your real estate process - where might others assist you in these processes.1) Financing deals2) Finding deals3) Analyzing deals4) Minimizing the risks of your investmentsetcYour goals will influence your real estate processes.

or is this a special case where a bank is distressed and the FDIC is exerting its influence?

Canadian investors make up nearly 30% of the foreign buyers market in the U.S. and I highly doubt they will be influenced by a visa offer.

Should be worth an award and 10,000 influence points.

I've heard that some savvy short sale investors would wait to have the lender's approval before they list on the MLS because the BPO will be influenced by the listing price.

Start building a list of your "sphere of influence" - the names and contact information of family, friends, co-workers - basically anyone you can think of.The moment you're licensed, you want to reach out to them and let them know you're in the business.  

So, Before I accept this appraisal I am hoping to get some opinions on 2 questions. 1- could a low appraisal hurt or influence future appraisals in a market where comps minimal?