With an assignment, you simply sell the contract.I hope this helps and good luck.

I simply respond "I'm not prepared to discuss other offers."

This is now simply a cost overrun associated with renovation estimates.

One added detail is this other couple are family (my husband's sister) so we need everything written and laid out clearly but with the assumption we will operate within these boundaries without going to court...meaning we don't need every word to be air tight but need it to be clear cut (as a side note I'm not interested in hearing about horror stories of doing business with family, I have done real estate business with family for over ten years and am fine with it). 

Some will apply for a 0% interest balance transfer and show their credit card balances as MAXED OUT.Then, when they receive the 0% balance transfer checks, they simply do quick Cash Advances on those cards and come right behind the advances with the 0% interest balance pay off checks.

I agree with @Edward B. on simply making sure the numbers work, and not buying in high-priced markets. 

So unless your Property Manager is doing something egregious the same issues will rear their head from time to time as they are simply part of the business.

@Paul Rowan I doubt many brokers would be interested in the potential liability if there is no cut for them.

Sorry, didn't catch that distinction.Unfortunately your bank seller is not going to be responsive to payment demands after the fact so you'll likely need to find another pocket.It's common for foreclosures to have water cut off for months before the sale so first is this a large bill or small bill you are facing?

(also, I am looking for a mentor in all types of investment) You found the place,  just simply go to the BP marketplace or call your local REIA they will be able to give you a name or two of someone who is at the event every month pushing hard money on folks :)