I know there are networking groups like ACRE and Pittsburgh REIA but I get the feeling that I'll be paying a membership fee to get talked at for a couple hours which is not what I'm looking for.

My biggest surprise in trying to fix this is that the administration fees went from approximately 10% to 30% on my revised quotes.  

The other thing to consider is the original owner has died, leaving the estate to his sister and nephew to sell.

Nitya reportedlyfaced distressed asset sales, lagging renovations, suspended cash distributions and deferring property and assetmanagement fees.

They charge a reduced property mgmt fee for cash buyers. 3.  

built into rate for my fees -Interest Only payments for 1st 18 mos.

I have never seen the bids stop in the middle.Typically the reserve is set for the amount of money due and all other fees incurred.

The short answer is likely yes through what's called the Ellis Act.However, you will have to pay relocation fees.

How much are the average closing costs (including agent service fee, closing fee, premium etc.)?

The other thing to consider is the original owner has died, leaving the estate to his sister and nephew to sell.