Restrict amount of applications bids

Hi.

Can someone please advise how I can restrict the amount of applications or bids that members can make.

Under listing setup/Membership Package/Membership Submission options i would like to have a max number of bids/applications field.

How I need the theme to work is a reversed option of current theme – Paid applications and free listings. A limit on applications and bids would greatly help in achieving more or less what is required. i tried finding the code for the listing setup and membership options but was unsuccessful

i have posted on the job board but have not been assisted on my other request and just seem to be hitting one wall after another.

any help or advise other than get someone to customize would be greatly appreciated as after 47 developers turned down my customization needs I have to try and get it done myself.

Thanks