I have a solid background in Excel and VBA which helped me analyze my first house hack and I've continued to keep reading books and listening to podcasts. 

The Complete Guide to Buying and Selling Apartment Buildings by Steve Berges is an excellent read

My go to right now is $130/hour, but they have excellent service (their low guy is $90). 

This was considered a win-win situation for both us and our goals (they are retiring and I am just getting started).I secured a cash out refinance in my name in order to pay this family member (and myself) back. 

What else can we do to win this home??

I don't know the terms of the contract and how long it is for, but you need to have the terms on your side if you want to win...There are to many factors, review your contract with your attorney. 

He is winning and you are not.

The barrier to entry for a first time home buyer owner occupant is incredibly low and efficient with the number of low down payment loan options and excellent interest rates and terms.

The books in the BP store are excellent - Brandon's book on Low and No Money Down, Anson's book on Finding and Funding Great Deals, and J.

I view it as a win for me as i can make some money off the deal while still saving him money by not going the normal MLS route.