Renters see that the whole neighborhood is available for rent and they push to see who will give them the best deal (or which agent will cut them a deal). 

We don't compete, and lower priced neighborhoods still need that service.Everyone starts out with the idea that they are going to work to the highest moral standards, but when you are in the thick of it and you just don't have the cash to close and maybe 10k earnest money on the line, you may start to tell yourself it is legitimate to cancel the deal, after all you have that clause in the contract.

I can't believe now some of the neighborhoods I ventured into...but I always had my friends: Mr Smith and I'm sure you know his pal... 

They will shop the available options for you and present you the best options while pointing out where the policies differ from each other.

I would also consider scaling back major expenses like car payments, lavish shopping, etc.

Some areas/neighborhoods are more STR friendly than others. 

🏡 MASSIVE transformation coming near downtown…🏙️With one of the last areas to develop near downtown, the neighborhood just south of Empower Field will get a massive upgrade 🏟️The stadium district master plan is only 10% done, but will include a mixture of housing options, jobs, game day/special event experiences, and more.When this 58 acre space is developed, it will re-shape the landscape of downtown once again…

This is simply predatory in nature full stop.I have sold many of my OREO props on low down ZERO percent financing but they were at market prices and the buyers owned them free and clear in 24 to 36 months that works.. but long term contracts on these homes is not a solution for neighborhood revitalization just the opposite.

Find a knowledgeable and trustworthy broker in your market that can shop amongst the various providers and find you the best deal while still making sure you have the protection you need.

The experience is working out pretty well.I think their goal is to be your one-stop-shop for the whole process and that will suit me going forward.