The area could be part of it or even something as subtle as the postcards you send.  

Thats some great subtle reinforcing of your number while building rapport... they might think of that number while doing the appraisal, and not even know why that popped into their head!   

He probably thinks you're being subtle and obviously lying to try and get a better rate.  

After 15 years of investing that included the huge run up and ultimate crash I have learned to appreciation a few subtle things about Real Estate InvestingFirst I believe the most successful people believe that real estate investing is first and foremost a people business. 

To your subtle point, let's not assume it went from Sub-Prime to Prime with a little lipstick and redressing.  

Its a great market once you learn the subtle nuances of the area. 

Be careful when at the auction to be subtle when letting other investors know you have the rights as some counties will kick you out of the auction if they think you are intimidating people from bidding on the property. 

Many states LC's have very similar protections and similar tax / reporting requirements, but there are subtle differences that will effect outcomes of worst case scenarios, should you have a legal challenge somewhere. 

It has been subtlely pushed against me many times without my realizing it, and now the time has come.

Could you do it in your pictures of the property, or would it be too subtle for people to notice?