We're paid for being the first one with an offer on the table...

So I come to the table with the 3K closing costs (including 1 point up front) plus 2.5K and use the HML to purchase the house.

My suggestion, go for 3-4 days and hit a different mountain every day.

Realtors are tough to work with on MLO, but if you can get across the table with the seller, and find their motivation, and do a "what if we could" conversation, you would be much further ahead of the game.

If that is your plan, figure out what you're going to bring to the table for the rehab teams to take you on.

I am a motivated bright individual and I know that I would breing a lot to the table!

The beginners guide mentioned I should try to bring something to the table right away.

We tour them in performing arts centers across the country, music festivals and clubs, so at least one thing I bring to the real estate table is negotiation skills :) I'm sure I'll be picking your Will Barnard and Joshua Dorkin's brains a bit.

If you're going to partner with the seller you want to have everything out on the table.

I want good proximity to jobs, neighbors who keep their places up, and views (preferably of the mountains)I do not buy in neighborhoods where there are other rentals.