You never know what the future may bring and for that reason you want to keep control of all money intended for children or grand children in your own name.

You have nothing to say about it as even if under 'contract' as you have no control.

We settled for the cost of my insurance deductible of $500 and that vermin walked away scot-free and kept $6,500.Be absolutely certain you have very good cash control in place. 

I want control of my asset.I own my office now.

(that training was not available to me, probably because the agency didn't have a clue to how to invest, how to make money or creative financing terms)  An idea that may have merit.......Interview agents. preferable a new agents.Let the agent know what your objective are (to buy, to control, to flip to build your portfolio)Be honest, let the agent know you are serious and that you have the cash or technique to control real estateSign a buyer broker agreement with the agencyIt is important to let them know that you will pay them a fee on unlisted properties that you buy.You need to lay out a plan that will help you and them to put together profitable transactionsOffer to not only pay a commission but you will list with them when you are ready to sell and (this is important) that you will give them a percent of your net profitsBe generous with your agent, offer a gas credit card, cash for giving you expired listing, buy lunch and give them cash from time to time.

Find some of the true players in that market.  

This isn't to start a debate on thoughts of gun control, just to simply ask the question: Is it okay for a real estate agent to carry an unconcealed firearm (on the hip or somewhere noticeable) for their own safety?

I have 12 rentals total but he is a much bigger player than myself in town.I believe he has 13 or so available for rent at the moment at the link below.www.lhpwichita.comSure I don't mind meeting.

Ned and others here have great comments.RIGHT...................... you can't buy them all.......BUT if you know how, you can control them all, all the time, remember you don't have to settle real estate to make a profit.....CONTROL is the game plan you may want to consider.

Another point is that once you become a player in a geographical area - people bring deals to you before they come on the market since they know you are active.