@Ryan Smith      Ryan,            Really.

Do I want to buy the house for more that $450,000 (if I'm given the choice) so that when I sell it and there's a gain I won't get nailed in taxes? 

If they are down to drop PMI without refinancing, and you are given the choice between paying for a cheap BPO or drive by appraisal, and a more expensive full appraisal, to confirm your equity position, pay for the full actual appraisal.

We can still fund a deal with this type of structure although the funding fee increases, That is why #1 and #2 are preferable choices.

Where FHA deals can be more difficult, I am having trouble understanding how that alone is preventing your offers from being accepted and, where inventory is very low right now, suspect the $100k approval is what is limiting your choices most of all. 

@Ryan KingThe trick is to market yourself to the seller as someone who is trustworthy, will make payments on time every time and take care of their property. 

My name is Ryan Catchings.

If you're wanting to sell it when you move, or use it for equity leverage later, the first choice sounds better.  

Ryan R. 

Success is a process, failure is a choice