Before I take on a new client, I always advise them to think through what they want to achieve in terms of tangible (and in-tangible) goals over the next 5-10 years.

Hey Chandra, applying part of the rent toward the purchase price motivates buyers by helping them build equity.

Purchasing a property in a place that one has zero connection to, no working knowledge of, and is dependent upon strangers with a profit motive to succeed is a terrible idea. 

You can also eventually refi the unit once 20% equity is achieved and then use the VA loan again. 

While not as common, these deals are possible in unique situations, especially with motivated sellers.In this high-interest, low-inventory market, it's all about getting creative while managing your risk and time commitment.

Anyways, my opinion is that you are clearly an intelligent and motivated worker.

This will help you identify what market will have the most ideal factors for what you're trying to achieve with real estate. 

So let's see we have no achieved RAISING the cost of entry real estate by $25k, ADDED more tax's to the populace, but hey, that sprinkling of the 1 demographic, they thank you for that $$$$.

As they say the loudest boos come from the cheapest seats - I wish you spoke to the revolutionary nature of this marketplace and the breakthrough we achieved by risking a LOT of ad spend to help the industry have a better alternative.

When making offers, it really comes down to the seller and what will motivate them to sell.