I would also say don't wait too long to get in the game.

Maybe she's supplying the stuff their smoking on Capitol Hill, it would certainly explain a lot. They do seem to have an incredible case of the munchies with all of the pork they're throwing around.

...

I have enough skin in the game that I know I will lose my money if I don't follow through on our agreement = I am motivated.As a lendor - "CYA" would be my policy.

Also, there are some really helpful videos on UTube (just type in Real Estate Investing, Finding Motivated Sellers, etc).

Will,I am seeing lots of games being played by the agents that "represent" the banksI am looking foreward to seeing them on the other side of the cycle.

Let us know the results of your LOI offer and if the seller counters or not.NEVER let the seller simply state to you, "make a new offer/LOI and resubmit" Tell them, "please send me a written counter offer"Sellers telling you to resubmit a btter offer are playing the game with you, turn it around and don't them them win that game.

This guy has spent a while debating a lot of people, and has came to a conclusion that I think most will agree with:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF_anaVcCXg

I see more Astro games so I have no choice.

A lot of the videos I watch people know right away because of there experience.

Sure, turnover and holding costs are ROI killers, but real estate is a long game.