I explained to him that the lack of this information on the site made me cautious to proceed, especially when he couldn't give me anyone I could contact.

Hi Nikkita,I would be very cautious in using a purchase contract with the terms you requested, it could very well be a violation of your State's licensing law regarding real estate.

When using Zillow for analyzing or finding deals, do you find their "Zestimates" as far a arv and rental rates to be accurate or should I be cautious?

So yes be cautious taking their value for investments, specially if you are looking at a fixer or older home with better homes in the neighbourhood, you could end up paying a lot more.About out of state, if you have a good connection to the place, like the Seattle example you give, it may be OK.

It's a good idea for sure, but I would approach them cautiously.

Believe me, I shall be one cautious investor... :-)

I am a novice investor and a naturally cautious (though not entirely risk averse) person.

No one is lending on them.Now I understand Miami residential is overvalued and banks should be cautious.

not always, but mostly, "deals" end up on loop net when they've been passed over by tons and tons of people. kind of like a trash bin where deals go to die. approach with a cautious and skeptical eye.

Espescially with winter traffic.Before throwing 520k out I would be very, very cautious.