Mirror mastic had asbestos.

Such as tape, mastic, copper fittings, solder, Freon, etc....

So, many of these ploys are simply to slow the process of gum up the works allowing time for the "counselor/investor" to figure out some way to get a property sold.

That's a good one David, keep the gas tank empty in that weed wacker over the winter so the carb doesn't get gummed up, bring it out buzzing when the time is right.I really wasn't making any request, didn't mean to imply you were puffing either but that such practices can be.

I started to post at the first but had to put my computer down, there are several issues, the first is the OP's strategy, read it carefully and see if you see any issues.I'm also surprised reading between the lines of other posts.May be we need a thread on predatory dealing, practices and why RE isn't like selling a used car or a box of bubble gum. :)

Dont get all hung up on trying to build buyers list, its a waste of time without a deal.Also building a buyers list is a lot about walking and chewing gum.

...Re-Repairs ... handyman charging 2-3 times market rate fixes the problem with bubble gum and duct tape (if at all) and surprise, it breaks again in a couple months.

Think of it this way lets say we have a house gum ball machine and all the houses in the area that are similar condition etc are put in this gumball machine. and you turn the gumball house machine of doom an one gumball comes out. is your one of your gumball more or less likely to come out if you have 1 or 5 in the machine. 

If you try to skip a step and use a finer grit it will just gum up and you will spend a lot in paper.

@Charles Bantom - Yes, a property in Pre-Foreclosure can most definitely "gum up" the process.if the home owner(s) has opted to do a short sale, then they really are depending upon you to get it done!