Most banks want the properties off the books so they want a price that's going to result in a quick sale.

Your area is a top emerging market.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereCheck out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

In this particular case it would have made sense though.To refresh my memory on the charges I did a quick mock up at the USPS and the charge was outlandish to buy a book of 10 stamps for $4.60 at $1.25.However to buy 4,500 it was only $1.75 so negligible if you are buying a ton like I was talking about.

BP has a book on flipping houses you might find interesting: http://get.biggerpockets.com/flippingbook/

BTW I really enjoyed the book...

Here are some books you might want to check out:http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/

Consider Lowell as an opportunity.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereCheck out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

You can check the blogs, podcasts, and the free books here!

Here's a list of some good books that you might benefit from as you continue to educate yourself and get going:http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/

Congrats on your new year's purchase, what a wonderful time to purchase.I would recommendtge guides and books they offer here.