In all my years I have never seen such a " formula "  Tenants are the easy part, Good luck 

So I made the argument to Duke that their deposit formula was not applicable to this property.  

I hear you on your concerns, but I'm hoping to keep this as simple and as formulaic as possible.

Here's my formula: PETIOPropertyEquity TitleInterestsOpportunitiesAfter you've research the value, the liens and the title you can determine if the owner is, in fact deceased, then check with county probate court to see if a probate has been started.There ought to be a place that you can get more info on how to deal with abandoned properties... 

;-)  But even with its simplicity, all this info overload still has me punching in formula after formula on it!

Rich Dad Poor DadRich Dads Cash Flow QuadrantRich Dads Increase your financial IQThe Real Book of Real EstateThe ABC’s of RE InvestingThe ABC’s of PMRich Dad RE Tax AdvantagesThe E-MythThe 4 Hour Work Weekhttp://flip2freedomacademy.com - free e-bookFlip2freedom episode 77[http://www.flip2freedom.com/a-3-step-formula-to-a-successful-balanced-and-insanely-profitable-2012/] - podcast - LISTEN TO THIS TODAY!

The listing agent said we can’t go through a lender due to the property being occupied and being sold site unseen. 3) What formulas do you use for making a offer on a deal of this nature?

With this formula, you would need to send out 100 or so mailers just to get one call.  

What's common and what is the formula so I can do my math and see if this makes sense?

While the property doesn't have cash flow, I needed a bigger home base (with an office) for the day job as someone that works in technology in the DMV.Made some mistakes along the way, and had more help than I can thank, but I got locked in with a good rate which is the important part and now that my feet are wet and I know the formula, I'm ready for more!