I'd recommend trying to snag something off market or maybe looking in a few different areas that aren't too far.

Are there homes that aren't ridiculously overpriced or homes that you can get at asking price, even a little under?

I'd say the reason that the cash payments aren't on the seller's returns is likely obvious . . . they didn't claim them OR didn't receive them.  

Take a picture and send it to them if they aren't sure about what you are asking for them to do.

I've also asked about making use of the existing well/septic, although I anticipate on simply replacing same with the new construction.Our counties aren't very modern -- while tax info is available online, I still have to go to the courthouse to research any other liens/judgements against the current owner to see if there are hidden claims to the property.  

Um, no we aren't and even if we were, we'd not be using secondhand toys. 

Not all wholesalers are bad, but they aren't real-estate agents who have a fiduciary duty and a license so some wholesalers like to take advantage of that.

Remember, not only does your cash have to cover the money down, i.e. the funds you aren't able to borrow, but also your closing costs. 

Your guests 'may' miss some of the amenities, but the hassle of fines for speeding/registration, the yearly fees, the calls from the admin office that your guests are partying naked in the street, or spread trash everywhere, just aren't worth it.

You aren't jumping "animals."