We found homewyse to be pretty accurate as it adjusts costs based on zip code & it was accurate enough to get us in the ballpark for almost every job.Looking for "lipstick" homes at first is a pretty good idea.

Timing the market means adjusting your investment strategies to maximize your returns and capitalize on opportunities best for the conditions of the current market phase.

Your best bet would be looking for a duplex and financing it FHA owner occupied with 3.5% down.  

This should lower your adjustable income so you pay less. 

If you come across as rude, you might slow things down.Not sure about a legal time limit but I bet they know more about it and how to get around it, if necessary, than you do....

If the doors were adjusted to a crooked foundation, you might need to readjust or even buy new doors. $$$5.

Live where there is one door and own where there are many.NEVER INVEST IN ONE DOOR.Single-family homes are bad investments for the most part and have proven to be for the last 30 years, earning about 1% per year when adjusted for inflation.

Try lowering your deposit amount and adjusting your rent price.

Best bet is to get inspections and or professionals out to assess the systems and provide estimates.With the roof 20-50 years depending on the climate, area, type of shingle and type of roof.

I Tend to think big and bet on my skills.