This project challenged me to identify the pros and cons of the location and evaluate the best size and budget I was going to need to build a house in my chosen location. 

For this project, we are going to finish out most of the work ourselves in order to stay in budget.

Price points are great and on a city investor's budget, can purchase 1-3 properties more or 5 units more.

He has a great rapport with the city so he gets permits as soon as he asks for them and know's how to build where it's cost effective along with staying below the budget. 

@Gerald Smith  - Zip code is 32244@Rachael Shad My budget is around 80K - any suggestions besides?

I'm starting on a zero budget and need cheapest bandit signs AND a phone service I can count on. 

When it's coming out of your wallet from a week's pay, you think harder, do more research, and make sure it's the right marketing strategy before you pull the trigger...which is a good thing.So, my advice, if you can refinance the principal balance for a lower rate, and that frees up some money in your monthly budget so you can launch a motivated seller marketing campaign...then THAT is the right route. 

And maybe thoughts on a highest acceptable counter-offer (assume my budget has enough room for $130k)?

The project is going very nicely, and I am under budget so far.

Can take less but i'd budget for that