Of course you can also just do cash for keys if there was no deposit, but still.

The key to the long horizon investor is that a retail purchase now will be less than a retail sale later (later being undefined but not influenced by artificial pressure).   

It will depend on the property so yes there is wiggle room, the key to having criteria is to have realistic criteria that will actually show up in the market at some point. 

In our area it is MLS, lockbox key, State and NAR like it or not. 

The absolute cheapest new construction I have seen recently in the less desirable cities is 290k+ based on their estimated savings over 30 years it delivers a 6.5% return per year over 30 years, which is probably a good thing for a retail buyer. 

@Charles Soper The key is to find it right in BiggerPockets community.

The key is being able to demonstrate your intent to hold it for investment when you purchased it.This why @Frank Adams talked about 2 years. 

Patience is key. 

NEVER give anyone the keys until you have all move in fees, money due you in your hands and utilities (if they are to pay them) placed in their names.24.

Some of the Items you mentioned are good way to add value, but are not key factors.Main key factors i can think of right now are:1.