The listing agent has probably already made them aware that the area is high risk for vandalism and to the bank losing an HVAC is the cost of doing business.  

Great point with the SEC rules, I am aware of 506(b) and 506(c).

Make sure the seller is aware of your intention to assign the contract, unless you plan to close on it IF you don't locate an assignee.

All she said was that she was not aware of another contract and will talk to her client.

You need to be aware of where the file is at in the process, what conditions still need to be met, and what to expect moving forward.Timeliness is also key.

Were you aware that the down was going to be so much? 

As we were adding to our rentals expanded when we eventually started to run out of capital for down payments we became more aware of using 'Private Money' in some way.... either as loans or equity partners.

Is anyone in the Central Florida area aware of any Groups or Associations in St.Petersburg/Clearwater area?

Also make sure you're aware of the property type. 

One area may be a war zone, where another might be OK.