Dave Anstatt I agree with Aaron McGinnis , no money means no share.

The seller generally has more room to negotiate and will often make an even better deal if you are buying more than one property.I  agree with Brian that auctions can be frustrating. 

Now I will agree with you on the note end of things.

Over the last few years I have sponsored Commercial and Multifamily deals in the area and I invest passively in the same across the country.

Why people buy across the country, out of state, and think it will be easy is beyond me.

Michael,I agree with @Eric Weireter and @Christian Hansen.. with an additional thought/caveat that you are going to be buying at or towards the top of the current market cycle (in my sometimes-humble opinion).

I agree that removing the pool is the right move, since it is above ground, however, I would not always shy away from homes with pools as rentals. 

Unless that's something you have agreed upon, like they help you out in exchange for you doing lots of deals with them, then I would just simply say you need it done in 6 months or less.

I agree with @Steven Picker. 

When that tenant comes calling for a repair, you have to fix it no matter who's agreed to pay for it at the very end.