I'm ready to buy but according to Financial Times, markets are predicting 1 full percentage drop in rates this year.

Is it just this market that is bringing fear or has it always been this way?

Market saturated with 3 or 4 bedrooms, a 2 bedroom may be ideal. 

The sellers let us in but did not say anything until we had equipment torn out.

My research has turned up a rural area with a decent rental market where 68% own and 32% rent.  

The answer is to put an add on Zillow, Craigslist, or anywhere else, where you can see what the market is. 

Take a bold approach to the real estate market.

They look like great homes and they are in an excellent market.  

Talked to a seller today, and her exact words were: "I have been advised by the title insurance company that because the deed for the property from my grandparents to my uncle was recorded after their death, I need to have a quiet title process initiated."

Different coaches specialize in different things, we specialize in accredited investors buying off market properties, with little down, for instance.