Use the cash to low ball and offer a quick closing.

When someone calls, talking like a goof ball, it indicates that they're not taking life seriously, so I try to avoid any drama that such a relationship might create.Give your new person small jobs. 

So you could certainly put in low-ball offers but you're probably going to get laughed at, if you get a response at all.

For me it would be my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who has given me the tenacity / talent / attitude and humility knowing I am but a stumbling ball of clay in this big game called life.

Maybe even find someone to partner / apprentice with so I can start stockpiling the knowledge and hands-on experience to get this ball rolling. 

@Kyle Godbout that sounds great definitely DM me and we can exchange contact information to see if we can get the ball rolling with this!

I haven’t had it appraised yet but my guess would be somewhere in the ball park of $220k-$240k (average prices of homes for sale in my neighborhood).

All,I currently have the ball in my court to purchase a 3bd-1.5ba duplex in a highly desirable location for $307,500 plus closing costs.

With a tear down, you are talking a different ball game in terms of timing (think carrying costs), financing, process,  permits, etc. 

that helps, I just wanted to know a ball park range on what I should expect to pay to finish off an 850 square foot basement so I know I'm not overpaying.