I'll bet you a round of beers that the rest of the windows in that house are not perfectly aligned with the floors or ceilings or are perfectly level and plumb or square within the opening - you just don't take notice because they are alone by themselves in the wall, finish carpenters are magical wizards who make stuff that aint right look good all day long and finally, you're just not looking for it.

I think Ohio sheriff sales start the bidding at 2/3 of the assessed value.Depending on the type of auction, I'll bet it has a hidden minimum price and a right of refusal.

If you call some retail outlets, I bet you can find out who they use for financing.

You're best bet is probably talking it over with an attorney in the area. 

This was also in the Airdna email:Key Takeaways Demand and revenues in Beijing, Tokyo, Milan, Rome, Seoul and others have plunged throughout the month of February and into MarchMost US markets remain strong and stableEvent cancellations in Austin and Barcelona have dealt crushing blows to hostsHosts in many locations are decreasing available rates to incentivize travelBright spot: booking behavior is highly localized and dependent upon destination type (leisure versus urban)Short-term rentals are often more immune to the impacts of pandemic than other travel industries 

Best bet is to talk to some site work contractors in your area as those costs have risen dramatically lately.A lot depends on the land itself in terms of topography, timber, rock etc.

Your best bet is to stop in at some local banks and talk to them.

But as you mentioned, it may not be legal, and I'll bet most people doing it and teaching it don't even know the laws.

Since you are pressed for time and do not have the funds to buy it cash, I think your best bet is to get off via wholesale.

Don't settle for the VA loan, it may not always be your best bet.