We both decided you can't win if you don't play, so renting is now out of the question.

She fell off the ladder climbing on the roof and sued her neighbor, winning a 250K settlement.

I def have a mean streak, but I reeeaaallly don't like to use it unless I'm really pushed (ie my convo with the GC about the plumbing permit).  

Since your interest lies in auctions, I added a couple blogs to get you in that mindset.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2009/10/30/times/ (Auctions)https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/07/03/oncetwiceaewin-real-estate-auction/ (How to win at real estate auctions)To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.

You could also look at time series data for listing prices to make a statistical prediction on pricing bands which would help you make an optimal winning offer before a price drop causes an influx of competitor buyers. 

Green landlording is a win/win/win as I see attracting tenants and helping planet.2. 

Not totally sure having to take them OTL will win out over just a good ole fashioned eyeball to eyeball.

Plumber said, "I've cleared up a lot of clogs, but this one wins the prize."

Would I win if I fought this in court?  

. :) So that's a win/win.