So, yes, I know the leads I am going after.And just to be clear, not too many things in my life so far have ever been easy, except to maybe mess it up, and I'm not interested in doing that, so I'd rather take the hard way.

Clearly the buyers do not value them the same.  

I’m looking to get started at using my people and negotiation skills in the market fully, I’m hunting for properties in the UK that can be hidden gems or fixer uppers, with a keen eye for architecture and a clear understanding of value and use I’m thoroughly analysing websites and in person sites for good deals.

If there is not clear winner, i would go with it was most universal and durable and don't "overspend" in hopes that it will sell quickly. 

I completely agree- I get so many scripted messages that are very clearly from a Youtube guru.

I would try to negotiate something like paying them $1500 and then negotiating an amount to go back and do the punch-list items which might be another $1000.Yes, in my example you are paying a little MORE than you anticipated, BUT scopes of work are often not detailed enough to be 100% clear to all sides.

I would make sure however you are investing is clearly understood (see Norada search on BP). 

I talk to a lot of people that want to get started in detroit where I invest, and if they can't quickly scale to 10 doors, I tell them to steer clear.

While it is nice of her to pay the rent for her adult son, she shouldn't be paying rent for two places as it is clearly stretching her budget.

If the seller owns it free and clear and/or has a lots of equity, see if he will agree to owner finance it to you for smaller down payment.