You will get an opinion that makes the property more attractive and promotes the seller's interest.  

That is one of the attractions.

People attract drama and problems into their life by doing stupid things like this.

Only after a couple of deals fell through did it start looking more attractive).Asking price originally was $250,000.

My big picture view is that metros reach a 'critical mass' point where they can attract the 'right' kind of intellectual capital and human resources (workers etc) that build the base of a solid regional economy. 

It's a nice thing when it happens, but it's not a methodology upon which you can readily launch your business.If  you have an established track record and are willing to take a small slice of the pie, you could probably attract private money willing to partner with you.  

I have also thought about filling in the pool and planting grass in the courtyard to save that expense, but not sure how popular the pool is for attracting tenants.  

@Logan Allec Thanks for the input, definitely looks very attractive on paper!

If the interest rate is attractive (most are at least 6 times CD rates unless they've been bought down), and the property is worth acquiring it may be worth rolling the dice.Good Luck!

Since supply is less than demand, homes will be higher priced and more attractive to the sellers in the market.