The ability to use different strategies, when you recognize when one would work better than another, just allows you to take advantage of different deals.Focusing on different strategies is making an attempt to use different strategies at the same time, without really being set up to do so.  

Is there a set % ARV for purchase agreement well below the recognized 70% minus repairs minus assignment fee? 

Does anyone know of any good sources on as far as educating oneself on creative financing?

Although I fully recognize this strain and can empathize 100%, I denied this request as I am aware of quite a bit of damage and unauthorized modifications that will require that security deposit to repair.I have tried to contact them to see how the new-house-hunting was coming along and mostly to get a good sense that they will in fact be moving out on or before 6/30.

The mortgage insurance can be a real killer of an extra expense on those, too -  make sure you've talked with your possible lenders about that so you can factor it into your calculations.I agree that analyzing at a LOT of properties that are not such great deals will help you to be confident that you recognize that good opportunity when you find it!

On the other, I recognize that $3500 is a lot of cheddar for someone to cough up all at once with another $1600 due 2 weeks later for December's rent.

I think some people don't recognize the number of requirements, downfalls, and long-term issues that can result by taking a 1031 in the wrong scenario.

Ideally it would be set up so when my phone rings I can see the number and recognize immediately that it is a seller calling even before I answer, or that it's a buyer, etc.

Remember many states actually don’t recognize land trusts at all, so I think it really comes down to the specific state you are operating in and your goals as far as how many properties, wholesaling, flipping, or holding, whether you are buying long term investments for your grandchildren, or looking to sell quickly, whether you invest in properties alone or with a partner, or multiple partners, or whether each deal is different as far as investors, so definitely speak with your accountant and lawyer before making any decisions. 

I recognize everyone will value each of these differently