However, longer-term bonds (1-5+ years) are subject to interest rate volatility:If rates rise, bond values drop, potentially leading to negative net returns.If rates fall, bonds appreciate, but gains are capped by their fixed coupon rates.While Treasuries provide stability, they offer limited upside and carry hidden risks for medium- to long-term maturities.Why Real Estate Is a Stronger Option in Today’s MarketMultifamily real estate, particularly value-add properties, presents an asymmetric risk-reward profile that Treasuries simply cannot match.

Part of the motivation for congress writing Dodd Frank was to clamp down on the investors offering preditory terms re  rent to own and seller financing and that view has carried into craigslist rent to own adds and you say zillow. 

I am definitely open to seller financing, I just wanted to have a back up plan if we decide on this route and we cannot find a seller willing to carry  

This would allow for a longer carry back with up front cash flow.

As for holding a home and building another one - be sure to include carrying costs of the first home while building the second.  

It seems like lease-purchase and seller-carry are better strategies but perhaps it's only because I don't yet understand the nuances of your escrow strategy.

Some banks can spread your funds around to multiple banks if you carry a balance over $250k and want to have all the necessary FDIC insurance…merry Christmas!

Our area has a good selection of hard money lenders, and every now and then, you might find an owner willing to carry the loan, often at attractive rates.

It's possible he carries it out, but I believe it unlikely.

Also carrying cost while your in rent up mode.3.