I started investing in Phoenix in my 20s too, and it's been quite the adventure.About your F1 visa situation, while I'm not an attorney or CPA, I had a client a while back in a similar postion.

There are a few things you could offer to make the deal enticing to the seller, such as a balloon payment, but I would keep it to less than 10 years unless it is too good of a deal.You need a purchase and sale agreement with the terms and after under contract you will work with the title company to get a mortgage and promissory note drafted by an attorney to be signed at closing. 

@William CoetHave you spoken to an attorney to review the documents?

Double check with an attorney to make sure you've completed it correctly.You will need to attempt to deliver it, by hand, to one of the tenants. 

Have an attorney advise and set this up for you. 

I am also a veteran if that is relevant.I was told I needed to speak to a tax attorney to lower it.

Hire an attorney that specializes in evictions.

My old broker who is an attorney said this is not legal at all because the listing agent is not representing the buyer and does not have the right to charge the buyer.

It's not going to force anything, but you can let them know "hey I'm sorry you're having a rough time, I'm willing to work with you on this but I need you to work with me as well".Check with your attorney for the deposit, in FL the deposit has to be made out to all occupants on the lease, so that could cause complications.

We had an episode of "Real Estate Note Show" on this topic with Attorney Sean Clemmensen.