I would get with an experienced broker/PM up there to help you identify where you should target.

You are willing to pay what you are willing to pay, and you should know what's a fair offer; but so should he.I think the skill in negotiations is to identify what is "fair", then tamper it slightly to your advantage.

Identify properties in areas I wish to hold an investment in.4.)

These roles can overlap and be shared of course but the main point is, what resonates w/you, what skill do you think you have and once you identify that, go out study, find a mentor, coach or whatever it takes to be the best you can be at it.  

So what I do - I keep an eye on a handful of neighborhoods across the city where I'm able to identify what a good deal is, price-wise.

By identifying the top 3 or 4 this will give you a good starting point.  

While I understand rehabbing is not without its hidden risks, I hopping to learn ways to identify the signs that indicate more repairs.

While I understand rehabbing is not without its hidden risks, I hopping to learn ways to identify the signs that indicate more repairs.

Hey BP - I'm in the process of identifying what types of properties I'd like to focus on for flipping in a given area.  

Once you identify a property that you are interested in purchasing, your agent and you will discuss an offer price as well as any conditions (e.g. contingencies like being able to get financing, a satisfactory inspection of the property, closing by a certain date, anything you want from the seller, like the awesome mirror hanging in the hallway).