It seem like most of the people hitting the MLS hard have many great realtor contacts and swoop on the deals before they hit the MLS and also no price reduction recorded on the MLS but only then know about the price drop so no competition for them.

This is more an appreciate/debt reduction play.

Easier to ask for a price reduction.If you can't come up with an agreement on the reduction then you either take it at the current agreed price or walk away.

Asking for $15k price reduction, see high cost items quoted total $14.5k, asking another $500 for all minor repairs.

Now, you're in a position to get inspection and have contractors to come out and submit proposals / bids for the work.If you don't like the costs and the numbers do not work ("the numbers" being a combination of rehab costs plus any price reductions you are able to negotiate), invoke your inspection contingency and back out.

Actually, call a property management firm and ask them what kind of rental price reduction to expect for a busy street location in your area.

Nothing against flipping but I enjoy seeing the appreciation, principle reduction and long-term cashflow. 

If it wasn't disclosed upfront in the listing and there is unpermitted bedrooms or bathrooms, I end up asking for big concessions or price reductions.

Properties that are in a little rougher shape may find RE investors willing to take on that liability usually for a reduction in price.  

And as in many other areas, my understanding is that the primary affect that COVID has had is a reduction in inventory (especially early on, potential sellers held off rather than having strangers constantly in their home!)