I agree with you Derrick.

But the auction company says the seller won't reduce the price at all.Given that I had already spent around $1000 on preliminary title and survey,  I offered to get full survey and title work done to prove to seller (although it seemed like they already knew b/c 3 deals on this same property had fallen through previously), provided that the seller would agree to pay for it if we couldn't agree on a price reduction after that. 

I agree with Kenny Dahill. 

@Jason DiClementeThanks, I agree, it just made me really second guess myself.

Howdy @Brandy DowningI have to agree with @David Cruice .   

The price we agreed in based on all flaws that exist. 

Sounds like you're doing all the right things to position yourself for your first purchase.I couldn't agree more with @David Cruice - I think it will be important for you to find a local bank / credit union to build a relationship. 

The longer the time, the more you should agree on an appraisal (2 if someone is not happy with the results of the 1)  For the 1 year, we agreed to a certain price up front.Get a non-refundable deposit to be applied to purchase if they do purcahse. 

But I’m looking for some specifics......I agree though, if they don’t take pride in the aesthetics of the property then that’s a major red flag!

I agree with @Jason DiClemente, spring/early summer is the best!