Russell Brazil will know the answer to this.

@Russell Brazil  @Eric CopelandEric-  You are not eligible to purchase any HUD home not just the ones listed by her firmRussell-  They are not eligible to purchase a HUD home even with the use of another broker. 

2) Is the idea of running a vacation home from afar (about 2 hour drive) nuts?   

@Russell Brazil When I replied with my offer of 0% commission, I did indeed reply to the buyer and buyer's agent directly because I wanted to ensure he knew my terms.

I agree with @Russell Brazil.

@Russell Brazil nailed it on the head.

@Russell Brazil @JD Martin @Chris Mason @Jeff Dulla Thank you for the insight!

@Russell Brazil @John Thedford  Not familiar with Sandwich lease options?

I can only guess what your cap rate will be but in hollywood, maybe 6 to 7 on a "c" class property.So for instance $100k gross yearly income, minus 50% = $50k, divided by .06= $833k as a purchase price.Now call the realtor and tell them they are nuts for listing the property at $1.1 m and you will offer $833k.Sit back and watch someone pay wayyyy to much for it and be ready when it goes distress sale!

This sounded nuts to me; why would they prefer to lend to me paying the entire $1,900 alone vs me having to only pay $700?