You are talking about owner occupied versus investment.

You can be on a street that is all +$400k homes and one street over there are burned out shells selling for $20-40k.Your best bet might be to reach out to some Philly investors and let them have a piece of the pie in exchange for helping you get what you want in an investment. 

@Russell BrazilIf it's not a requirement of your company I wouldn't see it to be an issue.I doubt the PM asked for it,, I bet the owner mentioned it and now is regretting they did.Yes the rental license is something to be provided, that gives proof of inspection by city and that it's licensed for rent.. the other is rather a owner option disclosure for point of sale at closing.

In a state that does specifically address them, such as Texas, they are a safer bet then in ones that don't.

That versus someone with little to no money trying out these wilder strategies and having to find the 1 in 1,000 owner who might consider it in an upward cycle.Can you blame the broker for wanting to make the most profit in the least amount of time?

And note: infill houses in established areas of development is a pretty safe bet, but when you start getting into multi-units (more than 4 units), I would highly suggest you do a needs assessment and run the numbers on ALL aspects that will affect your true Net.Now get to work!

Sometimes your best bet is to ask any of your local agents if they can recommend someone in your target market area. 

I live in Casa Grande,Az. most of the houses I've seen here are listed at or above their value,also I now in order to bid at auctions I need cash,so any information on where to look for good deals besides a realtors website is greatly appreciated.thanks Your best bet would to do some networking and find a partner that will show you the ropes and potentially let you buy into a deal for what you can afford and perhaps some labor.  

Betting on appreciation is a crap shoot that I would bet on.  

If your looking for partners your best bet is to meet and speak with people face to face. www.Meetup.com to find all the meetings.Best,David B