Personally I do think he spent a lot of money but the psychological effect was so powerful that he knocked out a number of deals out the gate just because he felt he had back up.

The out of the gate success stories sure can create delusional thinking.

I was thinking a personal letter would be a little less intrusive and give the option for them to call me instead of feeling on the spot with a lunch or call out of the gates.

You're describing a situation where the original intent, right out of the gate, was to resell the property for a profit, not to hold as a long-term investment.Can a property that's sold 6 months after acquiring be called a capital gain?

Some gurus make you think (and some newbies believe) you will be a VP right out of the gate.

I want to limit access to this carport, maybe with a (iron) gate. does anyone have any suggestions that will not break the bank.

The property looked abandoned - weeds growing 3 ft high at the security gate and pillars, tree limbs down, driveway lights (3/4 mile driveway) all broken and destroyed due to driving over them. 

If at all possible, find a way to pay for these right out the gate. 

@Dana Whicker does the tan trim and doors match the walls? 

First off, I always take an application because telling people they don't qualify right out of the gate reeks of discrimination.