If this happens there may be opportunities.But Wayne is right, if the opening bid is attractive there will be competition.  

Not suggesting you necessarily sell to them but it may give you an idea of what would make your property attractive. 

As far as actual track record/technical merit/history goes, I don't know much more than that--however at the meetup talk they tried to be as conservative with their numbers as possible which I found attractive (as opposed to hyping things up and pretending REI is some overnight venture).I also think Memphis Cash Flow mentioned Marathon property management as a good go-to sister company for managing properties--do you know of others that also reputable?

We likely would have needed the escalation to be a significant amount like $10k, to make it attractive over an all cash offer.

REIA's can be a great source of info however I would say from what I heard they also have a national agenda they like to push on the local meetings so keep your eyes open and your wallet at home.  

My best friend is facing some serious assaults on his wallet from his wretched, bilious harridan of an ex-wife. 

They are attracted for different reasons.

Also, being my first deal, the 100% financing is attractive for me, and I'm sure a lot of other rookies who have little to start with.....

If they succeed in attracting larger developments of affordable housing into the downtown area, the pressure for affordable units in the outer neighborhoods may ease up a bit.  

Plus, if they smell that you don't know what things should cost they'll rape your wallet.