I'm slightly confused thou because highest and best is usual meaning there are multiple offers but you are also saying you got a counter?

Also larger brokerages with multiple offices will likely have many seasoned Brokers willing to have you help out.

(Some of the books that helped me the most I have read multiple times) Financing your deals is not impossible if you have downpayment money, but if you have a BK and no cash, you're right, it's very challenging. 

If you have budget for multiple properties, and bandwidth for multiple markets, consider evaluating "deals" from both markets.    

I say ok, I think I can come up with say 10K to get "skin in the game" which should cover the 4 points easily on the type of deal I am looking at.

This is considered a hard inquiry because the renter had no direct involvement in the request.Many renters apply to multiple rental listings with different landlords.

There will be multiple ways they cross check.  

Coming from a background where I am relatively nervous answering phones, my brain drew multiple blanks in the short time I was talking with the guy.

@Jason LeeRegarding the estoppel question: Absolutely a good idea, regardless of whether the lender requests it.Having one has been a huge benefit to myself as a buyer on multiple cash purchases.  

My wife and I have built multiple businesses together, we currently own a used car dealership here in the Los Angeles area and are doing well.