@Matthew Crivelli In this instance, I'm looking at the Alaska market, specifically the Kenai peninsula. 

For instance, say it's for a loan 25-50k the buyer has closed already on the property.

For instance, not to buy at retail value -- How do you go about achieving that?

Use what you have learned to build long term goals, for instance, what do you want to be doing at age 50?

Don't rely on the Tenant paying them directly because failure to pay can result in liens (in some instances), or fines/penalties.

Take for instance one of the markets I own and operate within. 

I’m sure I could probably attempt one, the other, or both in this instance. 

We buy notes so we have REO properties all the time and in this instance if you would still be the high offer we would go with it or even if you were close to the next offer as you have completed your inspection.

For instance if you wanted something on leadership my throwdown would be "Extreme Ownership" by @Jocko Willink. 

That's the cliff of negative cash flow and loss of profit coming closer and closer...and the REI never sees it coming.The line NEVER moves, or to steal a line from a famous movie, "See the way it works is the train moves, not the station".