Furthermore, I was very clear to say that not ALL go zone opportunities and those that present them are bad, but MOST.

No need to buy somebody's course once you understand the basic concept.There are certain programs from differnet levels of gov't that subsidize housing for various "special needs".For example, I attended a presentation from a county mental health worker who was seeking landlords who were willing to house those people in the mental helth program who were ready to transition to living in "normal housing".So the only challenge you have is to identify the gov't levels that have subsidies for housing, and which groups are given the subsidy.

I told them not at the present time.

IMO, a mailing presents an impersonal approach and relates to your interest in a property.

At the very least, can I expect to negotiate with the owner while the RE agent is present?

I'm assuming you're smart enough to never meet with a woman alone (I'm guessing you're a guy) without a third party being present.

I don't see another currency at the present time that might replace us, although India is also coming on strong in many areas and not in serious debt.Rich

It helps that I've done some REOs and closed them- but if you can present an offer to the bank that gives them a comfort level that you can close- you don't have to fear making an offer that's fair to you.Let's face it- the bank has already screwed up on the loan.

Am in holding pattern until further notice.The buyers are in a foreclosure on their present home that is underwater, and there were some other financial problems too.They are just wanting to downsize and get a fresh start.

They get a reputation among their peers as to the types of contracts they present.