The buy in is more expensive of course but hard to put a price on experience.

This will allow you to get a FHA 3.5% down payment loan. of course, this would require you to live in the building, if that isn't something you are willing to do you will likely need a 25% down payment for a pure investment property, in which case you are likely going to have to look out of sate, as $20K isn't going to get you 25% down on anything near you.

I would love to be near the Glen Ridge, Bloomfield or Watsessing train stations ideally since my wife needs to commute to the city.

Of course I have his name and address (it's actually a business address) from the tax record and, of course, I've sent him mail.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

He's got really clever subject lines tho so I open every one of um. its the high desert western desert land game.. there was about 2 to 3 million lots created in SO CAL AZ  NM  TEXAS N CAat the turn of the century through about the 50s before the subdivision map act came into play.. they have been traded around in tax sales for the last 100 years.. there are a few gurus who sell a course how to buy and sell .. but its an old old old old game nothing new.buy at tax sale for 100 dollars (literally) sell on contract for 500 dollars 20 dollars down 10 a month.. if they make it one year you doubled your money. and because the price point is so low no one cares about title insurance its just deeds being swapped.. its the business I grew up in..

They have numerous evictions, a theft record, the good tenant says they steal her stuff and their kids pull pieces of the house off (siding corners), and best for last, when they failed to pay the electric and it got turned off, they switched the meters, which of course is dangerous and put the good tenant in a mess with the electric co that was sending her the bills!!!

Should I explore different avenues or are there any tips/ideas someone could provide me with securing a home below market value in an area that homes are selling like water(not literally of course).Appreciate the help!

Of course, lenders might have their own requirements on that, if the property is financed. 

Easily getting to and from the airport, or taking the train home after a wine fest will be greatly appreciated at your new home. 3.