Then you need to know how to negotiate the deal.Not everybody is going to want to sell you their property at at discount no matter what their situation is, because of one simple factor....PRIDE! 

Here is my opinion so far:US:- 30yr fixed principle repayment mortgage, so actually build equity assuming 0 appreciation- rates around 4.2% right now (also get a small discount through work)- first 4 properties 20% down, then 25%- can deduct all expenses plus depreciation- I have a large liability in USD (student loan) so would be good to have a USD cash flow and avoid FX riskUK:- interest only mortgages with 3-5% fixed rates for 3-5 years...then need to refinance (which can be expensive and unpredictable...also interest only so relying on appreciation)- however, interest only improves the cash flow significantly as the mortgage amounts are tiny- 25%+ down- slightly less tax friendly, it seems- much less space, higher population density and growth...points to higher average appreciation potentialDoes anyone have any thoughts?

•Evaluate better paint (lasts better, longer); colors (hard to notice dirt, smudges, but stylish); sheen (something that cleans easily but looks good)•Negotiate bulk discounts on replacement of major items & coordinate•Evaluate more durable items vs cost across the board•Consider day labor for easier job- Consider selling if people are overpaying for old systems?

You have the opportunity to come in and buy at a discount their property for cash.

The truth is that you have to prove that you can make money before anyone will lend it to you, kind of a catch 22.I would look into hard money, Autumnwood in Columbus works mostly on LTV to as long as you get the property at a steep enough discount they will loan 100% of the money, but you have to show at least 30% reserves in the bank.Basically, as a newbie, it would be very difficult to get a flip funded without any money.  

I have found that when I am just staring out on something, it is healthy to challenge my assumptions and "discount" mysleef a bit to err on the safe side. 

When buying and then selling tax deed properties in Texas, is it possible to "wholesale" the property shortly after purchase, if you find a buyer willing to purchase (at deep discount, all cash deal) and handle the suit to quite title or redemption period.For example, buying the property at %20 market value and selling to whole seller at %60 market value, to ensure quick sale and the new buyer's risk/reward ratio is high.

Ask about their realtor discount.

Another benefit is the larger loans tend to have a discount in rate.For example a loan of 3 million might have a fixed rate of 4.6% with a 30 year amortization due in 10 years.

The biggest concern will be that you will need to buy at a large enough of a discount in order to be able to refinance.