MLS, off market, wholesalers you name it and I will have competition.So with that said, If you are confident your repairs are $65k and the ARV is $620k, and you are comfortable with a $100k spread, bid appropriately.Using all of my soft costs, I think i could out bid you on that house.

I tried to learn this on my own and I am not feeling comfortable with it.

So to ensure you comfort and safety you have decommissioned the central air unit and have provided 2 window air conditioners for their use but still your property.

I know I could go through hard/private money lenders but for this first project I would feel more comfortable dealing with more traditional bank financing.

@Chad Skiles as @Tucker Merrihew said, put in the highest offer you are comfortable paying and see what happens.

You do the same and find one that you are comfortable with.

If not, find what it takes to make him comfortable with your offer.

You just have to stick to your guns and not pay more than what you feel the property is worth and what you are comfortable paying.A lot of people give up after a few tries, but persistence can pay off!

Although I think of an unfinished basement as something that could have a ton of potential but is still not a space people would spend much time, with the price we had placed on the house, the fact that it didn't have a second coat of paint on the basement walls and floors must of prevented folks from feeling comfortable with buying the house.  

Anything that allows heat to escape will improve comfort.