Especially since it is a patio home as opposed to a true townhome.

The purchase price was $65K with a professional appraiser's ARV of $130K. 

Same is true for Akron, with a Akron U in the center.

I think that's true for those who are not already in the program.

The more you read the more likely you will be able to weed out what stands true and whats theory.  

That's true.

But you are obviously at a much higher professional level than I.Good luck in your retail ventures.

That's what business professionals do. 

All true pre-foreclosure information should be easily accessible via a general MLS Tax search or county search combined with Spokeo or Anywho to get phone numbers, but many other people will have that info.

Soft costs will vary based on impact fees, professional fees, RE taxes, carry costs and mistakes covered in your contingency.