I think you're instinct on auctions is typically correct, but if you really learn the niche (as is true in most of real estate) you'll likely find an easier time finding deals.

@Gino Barbaro your very correct free is free but still location for that someone to contact when you step past free info to real world solutions.  

We pulled the plug and bid on a auctioned duplex and WON!!

Obviously, I can't keep up with their bids since they can eat the extra costs.Anyway, I'm having trouble locking one down.

I assume this is a flip that you will resell, correct?

I’ve been listening, learning an taking notes on how this business is done an I’m on the road to becoming  a landlord an learning how to run this operation correctly.

Thank you(I hope this is the correct forum)

I knew if I didn't do it correctly that would happen just needed to hear it from someone.Thanks! 

During PCS season there are bidding wars and investors with cash offers coming in over asking price.

You can start a spreadsheet and start tracking what other investors are paying and what kind of estimates you are getting so for example you will know the next time your contractor gives you a bid on carpet thats 30 per square yard you can tell him that you are willing to pay $15 a square yard for builder grade carpet.