So here goes:I understand that as real estate investors, we know that it's about buying in the right market, with the right strategy and with the right financing.

I understand that as one acquires more types of assets, taxes can become more complex, and I want to ensure I'm maximizing my savings.Are there any CPAs in this community who also own real estate and could offer guidance or share their experiences in navigating taxes as a real estate investor?

However, like other tax rules each situation is unique to each individual and there are regulations that must be followed for the deduction to be applicable.What is an Investment Interest Expense?

that's my real question... the follow up question is... do you think it's worth $3,150 to go from 6.275 to 5.75 on a 30 year traditional loan? 

You can have a realtor involved in seller financing, but it usually does not work out because they don't understand, which is what you may have meant in terms of a realtor knowing how it works.If you paid off your first house, what is your savings?

In order to get into the number that seller wanted the appraiser used the following values: a bedroom = $10k, 1 br apartment = $5k, 2 bedroom apartment (above grade) = $15k, bellow grade 2 br apartment with no kitchen = $25k. 

Final bid was $5,500, and I figure the total taxes owed are around $5,000 including court fees and interest.I'm kicking myself because, in hindsight, I see I didn't completely understand the process.

It may also be dependent on when you catch them so it is helpful to follow up every so often.

Take a look at this blog post, you may be able to better understand your seller, anticipate their pain point and provide a solution they haven't considered.

You will have to follow the procedures within the municipality where the permit submission is located.