Just read Brandon's book - or rather listened to it on a trip to Florida.  

In person, arrive early; preview again before the auction begins.Look and listen for clues as to seller motivation or needed work.Observe other potential bidders (your competition) don’t tell on yourself.Be ready with certified funds or cash for the deposit if you are successful bidder.

I listen to Matt's podcast and actually joined his academy over a year ago, tried to get something going on the wholesale side in Northern Virginia but I don't think I was doing it right.  

Of course, you need to read The Ultimate Beginners Guide to REI here on BPIf you haven’t already, please read/listen to these books ASAP!

We're I in your shoes, my inclination would be to ask them for an offer with an Earnest Money Deposit due within 48 hours of acceptance of their offer in the amount of $5000.  

I listen to a couple podcast which were great.

My first post here, after reading a lot about real estate (few books, listening to the podcast and practicing with a few numbers to see if they would work).

Listening to some of the BP podcasts (i think 78 in particular), I remember the guest saying how in 3 years she had 27 properties.  

But listening to your situation you could relocate and rent or rent-to-own a place.

There are lots of podcasts to listen to and plenty of articles to read.