I am not in North Carolina, but I am in 11 other markets and would be happy to chat to answer any questions.

I’m not familiar with those markets, but I would suggest finding some meetups and attending as many as you can.

I'd love to help anyone break into the Huntsville Market! 

For example,  if no one else bids on the property or it stays on the market longer than the bid window and they do not accept an offer?

While I have none in this market I have been on one realtors monthly newsletter with market analysis for over 8 years. 

I have a friend/neighbor that wants to sell me his house below market value so he can move back into an apartment and travel.

Until the lease ends and then the legal notice time in your market has passed.

This is such an easy way to stand out against the competition in your market.

Hey All, I'll be traveling to Costa Rica for a wedding and wanted to explore the market while I'm visiting.

Quote from @Marc Zak: In the market where I live (San Diego), appreciation has been strong and many predict it will continue to appreciate in the long term.However, with current interest rates (6% at best) and property tax (2%), the annual cost burden is 8%.Am I correct in saying that appreciation has to be above 8% annually (plus whatever my maintenance and vacancy costs are) for me to make any money in this scenario if the property is cash flow neutral?