The downside is that your offer may be less competitive than another buyer.I made an offer on a 4-plex on Monday and went through the listing agent even though I had contact information on seller.  

@Brandon Ingegneri, from strictly an insurance perspective, it is much easier for me to find competitive insurance options for a landlord who manages for himself and others.   

I have access to single units available that are off market with no competition. 

It's amazing how open & friendly the REI community has been, lets just say it's a LITTLE different from the competitive environment I've been used to for the past 23 years as a small business owner!

Condos can be a good property to start on because of ease in rehab, but like all real estate in Denver it is very competitive and typically a lower price point that makes it a bit more challenging.

The problem with MLS listed properties (REO's, short sales) is that essentially everyone has access to them so competition is fierce.

The way I see it, the cash-to-refinance route would give us a bit of a competitive advantage when buying, since paying by cash would likely appeal more to sellers.  

It can be very competitive, but once you hit your stride, it can be great.

The MFH market can be quite competitive out that way with the high demand from housing brought on by students.

She isn't going to want 5+ years of payments, but I do know that she is open to creative ideas, as her place will be hard to sell on the retail market and since it's unlisted we don't have a lot of investor competition.