Joint Venture with an experienced investorMake yourself valuable ( bring something to the table other than money)Owner Financing dealsWholesale homes.I recommend reading the NO Money Down book on Bigger Pockets, ( No plugging intended ) great book for giving ideas on creative financing .

I guess that is why I said "(not Texas except in limited circumstances)" ;-) Since he isn't in Texas it isn't relevant to him, but since I buy and sell in Texas I want those who also intend to buy and sell in Texas to be alerted that Lease Options have to be treated differently and they are advised to seek legal counsel if they choose to do Lease Options in Texas.

I questioned that when I read that but just figured I was just not yet aware of potential opportunities out there where you can get a bank loan for 90% of the cost (and pay PMI) or maybe bring in a partner or private investor to cover the other 10% of the 20% down payment to avoid PMI? 

This is your "opportunity cost" to get into the market.2 - Exit #1:  Sold Comps. 

If you want actual bids for a property you fully intend to purchase then that’s a little different.3.  

Since they are concerned about their safety and want to leave anyways, it will be a perfect opportunity to replace them.

Louis is a very fractured market which means there are as many opportunities as there are landmines.

The market is really hot here but there will always be opportunities.

What, otherwise, will be the policy in relation to dividends – to what extent is it intended to distribute / retain surplus profits?

Looking to get my feet wet with wholesaling, but not afraid to take the leap forward to the next level if the opportunity presents itself.I'm ready to dive in head first and take my future into my own hands.