If it's $100-200 less than the competition then they will oftentimes overlook the extra amenities or add them themselves.

If you do an open house, offer an alternative way for those who can't make it, so they can view the home and get their application in too.By bringing everyone together at the same time, it creates an atmosphere of competition.

There are only going to be a handful of professionals in any given city that are willing to take on these projects so the competition is next to none and you can pick up these properties at pennies on the dollar.

Seems you’re hitting all the right places, the rental pool is just more competitive now.

@Robert Fountain,dated and dated, clean and new paint smell are 2 different things...i would check all competition for 0.5-1 mile radius then check all features for houses sold in the same radius.you will then know:-paint color/combination to use (neutral beige or the ever popular graige/grayish tones)-appliances common or not/expected or not (all matchy matchy)-houses features/commonalitychange counter tops and fixturesclean/rejuvenate the cabinetscheck like crazy the mechanicals: those are the #2 money eating (#1 is bad tenant or vacant property)some here on BP have removed carpet completely and refinished wood under/switched to vinyl click wood like planksgood luck

You mean to tell me you want a very successful real estate investor to give you exact step-by-step instructions on how to be successful in an extremely competitive, multi-faceted field, and you don't don't want to pay for his or her time?

Like yours, my local market is hot and I'm growing increasingly frustrated with the MLS competition.  

My IRA collects a competitive interest rate, but his collects all the rental proceeds and captures the appreciation upon the sale.Thoughts?? 

Yes, from my calculations pre renovation cash on cash return based on a competitive offer I can give would be around 2-3%.

Some possible options could include the ability to close quickly (cash offer or hard money) or willingness to take over an asset in poor condition / occupancy.I would focus on getting really clear on the following: property type you are interested in, your financing (include repairs if part of your strategy) and location (broaden your search to include areas with less competition).Best of luck,John