I figured if I were to get a real estate agent then the private seller would legally need to be represented as well so I would need to find them a real estate agent as well.Okay, let’s say I get past the contract point and the seller accepts my contract.

Whatever you might offer, it's the bank's call on whether to accept it.

I guess if I were to do it again, I'd start contacting contractors the second the I get the message that my offer was accepted.

I don't accept those with unresolved evictions, etc.  

Banks don't accept payments as a general practice once they are behind anyway.If the seller also can demonstrate financial hardship, they may be approved for a short sale like @Jerry W.points out.  

In RE, 10% is rather acceptable.  

If it goes any lower I may have to move to Miami.I sell bank owned houses in the Tampa Bay area, but banks are not accepting assignable contracts, which is what I'm guessing you're looking for. 

I had previous stated I would not accept an applicant without a SSN.

I've never bought a home without it being inspected.But then, my agent informs me that they won't allow inspection after being accepted.  

Hey guys,I recently had an offer accepted on a foreclosed double wide manufactured home on it's own land in a condo community.