The seller managed to purchase at a time where prices were still depressed and purchased through a short sale allowing a steep discount.

I haven't tried suggesting an installment sale or done an owner carry (other than one pre-foreclosure) and have just done cash wholesaling so far.

We are currently living in a college town [martin tn] and there are several duplex and quadplex that are for sale.

How are the commercial sales?

The best thing I've found is going on the county auditors page and searching the street your potential property is located on as well as a few nearby and identifying sales in the past 6 months.

She is honest and knowledgable.Anna Stollings ~ RealtorMulti-Million Dollar ProducerOAR Presidents Sales ClubHigh Point Real Estate Groupwww.AnnaStollingsHomes.com

Here is the backstoryMy wife happened to drive by and found the home directly after the sellers agent put the for sale sign in the front yard.

Also, taking strategic acquisition approach in purchasing especially in a  depressed market is like couponing at a huge sale and then adding a coupon on top of the bulk discounted price.  

Since you're in Florida, I assume you're making offer using the FAR/BAR As-Is.You can make a cash offer (assuming you have the cash and proof of funds to back it up), but still reserve the right to finance a portion of it. 

Slowing sales, increased inventory in high priced homes, buyer fatigue with escalating prices....