if your going with financing and a longer closing then you will have to show the bank your well qualified and pretty much play by their rules (their conditions, timeline, etc.) if they don't have any other offers or any cash offers (the bank i work with will take deep discounts for cash and fast closings (2 weeks or less)) you may make a higher offer but if the bank can get it off the books before the end of the month with a deep discounted cash offer then they will seriously look at it, even if they lose some money.

I think it's essential to play it safe by assuming that you will make NOTHING the first six months of your real estate career.

I am looking for a home of my own and at the time the idea of using a lease option for myself also seem ideal, especially on a duplex I would like for myself.

Maybe you won't find your ideal deal until you see property #78.

If you're investing in real estate, either actively or passively, his goal is to cut your taxes in half (ideally to 0) within 3 years. 

To achieve this we are looking at long term buy and hold properties that cash flow at least $150/month ideally $250/month. 25 properties at $150/month doesn't achieve our financial freedom goal but once the debt service is paid in full and after the 50% rule we should be in good shape.

Definitely age does play a part in value.... oh and condos are certainly age driven when it comes to value.I think it has to do in part, with the type of property building materials that were used back in the depression era vs those materials used post depression era...

We still have a decent down payment, but not enough cash to play the MLS in Denver.

I would think this would be ideal.

If your plumber can play drain auger and figure out what's up then you are miles ahead.I've had similar issues in Toledo (swampland is arguable), determine how the basement has been draining first and foremost.