Michael,

I don't know if you have any luck with the properties you were looking to bid on in the Milan area in April. The key with bank homes is finding out about them as soon as possible and making your offer as "clean" as possible. Bank properites are always listed on M LS systems so realtor's can ususally provide you the information, just make sure you select one who's experienced and has dealt with bank-owned properties in the past.
http://www.thompgroup.com

Michael,

First I need to ask, are you under contract or obligation with a real estate professional?

Did you view either of these properties with an agent?

Have you been pre-approved with a lender close to these values? (please do not indicate an amount, just yes or no)

The reason I ask these questions is that if you are already under contract with an agent, that's who you should be asking. Also, if you've already viewed the homes, it is possible you may create a Procurring Cause issue.

I will state that in general, everything is negotiable in real estate, but offers based upon facts may get you a more reasonable price. This may or may not be the "magical" price that you pulled out of a hat.

You may simply log back onto Trulia, and submit an answer to your question with your answers. Please do not provide any information about how badly you want either of these properties or anything about money! Remember, everything on the internet stays on the internet.