Michael Jordan was a mediocre baseball player, despite being perhaps the greatest basketball player ever.

It does not matter who "wins."  

It makes it a win-win.Also, March is not that bad month for finding tenants.

You need to have cashier's checks made out to you (or your company's name) name in the ENTIRE amount of the winning bid and they expect you to pay immediately after winning the auction. 

There has been a lot of REIT volatility recently (in particular, Jan & Feb).In addition, there have been some large transactions by major players that could be signals that they think the end is coming soon.  

If you will be living at this place there is an emotional component which might justify you going higher in price to win the property.If this is an investment for long term buy and hold for rent income then it is less emotional and more about dollars and sense.Another factor is velocity of deal flow in your area.

Make sure you ask the auctioneer or trustee if you win the bid, do you get good title.Charles Parish.

But if the seller holds firm on asking price of 130k, what are some creative ways to structure owner financing that can be a win win?

Sometimes I'll lose, sometimes I'll win.

Try establishing a relationship/rapport first, determine motivation, and try to find a win/win deal based off what you uncover.