Did you actually look at these properties in person? 

You may have the 3 day option period there if that hasn't passed yet.My second thought is, in consultation with your agent, if you are willing to give up the earnest money, offer the inspection report, your bank appraisal, and be willing to release your earnest money. 

Come by REI Central some time if you want to meet other investors in person.

That was not the case as the lender informed us – not our guy, but the “hatchet man” for the bank – that the bank was no longer in Florida and that we needed to get them out of our property and they were calling our loan.

But I was working for a very large bank and saw how futile it is for massive financial firms to adopt new payment systems. 

Thanks @Johnny MartinMy suggestion is to partner with a like minded person... and preferably someone like a family member who really knows you... a dad... an uncle, etc that understands the value of passive investing.  

can you visit them in person? 

A bank will give me a loan (if its ARV is good) and I can use that new loan to pay off the original home equity, and buy another home plus pocket the difference?

I think trying to bank on appreciation is never a good bet.

Standard practice and the veriage should prohibit the person from doing any deals directly with the parties you are in negotiation with.