And because in general I don't want a bunch of sketch/crappy places taking money from people and providing nothing in exchange.Sorry that you would like to keep it to bashing people only but I think it is important for everyone who will read this to know that some people have had good experiences with them.

And no matter how you try hard to be kind, people don't always see things from the Landlord's perspective when it comes down to money.

If you have doubts do not go with it is my adviceIt is a lot of money if you have second thoughts rightThere will be other deals in Gulf Shores ALFrankly it is not such that thousand people are waiting in line to buy there:)

Is there a way to offer and buy a property for cash (either private or hard money) then refi into a mortgage at 95% LTV?

Is anyone using money market funds for this purpose?

You will lose your money.

I would not play around with creative finance in terms of spending time trying to find it because it will end up not being the best use of your time unless you have marketing money and understand the different scripts and way you can help people with seller finance or sub to.

Hire a great real estate agent and let them help you- that's the best thing you can do to make more money. 

Also, since it is nearby the LA county areas, how does earnest money work?

I won't be another grown man's emotional punching bag for any amount of money.