I own a triplex that sounds similar, keep in mind that it will not be a good flip or resale in the future if it was not properly permitted and or if eack unit does not have it's own power and water meter.

Good location and possible negotiation power due to the knob and tube and the fact that it’s been on the market for over 200 days.

I understand how powerful HELOCs can be and cant wait to build more equity in my primary residence so I can use that to fund another deal. 

What powerful secret do they all use to get so many cash investors?

Sweat equity is about as powerful a "creative way" as it gets.Are you a native Vermonter? 

You really want to try to buy well below retail so you have some built-in equity.If you're intending to apply leverage, and you can find the right lender, $1 million in cash translates into $3-4 million in purchasing power.

Facebook is powerful, I have yet to find Twitter's usefulness but I am still evolving with it.

Find the pain and heal the wounds!

Is the water heater power vented?

I was pointing out that most wholesalers only deal with truly motivated sellers and that being upfront with your real intentions is still a wise move.If that's what he does and it works than all the power to him but I still feel that being upfront is the best way.