@Steve Olafson Welcome to the site its good to hear the realities of real estate many people always discuss how great things are and fail to mention some of the struggles you will have to face with market.

The reality is that mold spores are in the air practically everywhere.

I emailed again afterward saying that I was sorry if I was ruining their day but really under no reality could a house go from 900 sq ft to 2000 sq ft without foundation being poured.

Thanks for the dose of reality Cal.

The reality couldn't be further from the truth.  

It's probably not a bad idea to start keeping your eye on the properties and price ranges your interested in and probably talk to some mortgage professionals to get some solid numbers on exactly how much money you'll need to make your next deal go from an idea to reality.  

I feel like it is a sad story that is repeating itself around the nation as communities try to deal with the changing realities of the economy.NY Time Article

It's easy to be pissed off that a tenant is damaging "your house" and they better do what "you say" but in reality, they don't have a huge reason to give a damn so simply nicely informing them of a few things to do different to avoid the problem in the future is probably the way to go.  

I've met quite a few successful guys there, some who completely make me feel like small potatoes, its a nice reality check: there are other successful people out there!

@Joseph Ball They definitely want you to get the "auction fever" but in reality this is not an auction at all.