Some situational pressures are a somewhat wobbly rental market due to economic conditions (Nike/Intel layoffs). 

It's not the ideal living condition, but it's a proven method of investing when real estate is unaffordable.

However, in today's market conditions syndicators that are pushing a hold period under 5 years would seem to me that they are being too aggressive on assumptions. 

.- If a property has already been on the market for longer than the average DOM, consider an offer that has terms/conditions favorable to the owner while maintaining a purchase price amount that is favorable to you.

Because the condition of the building has deteriorated requiring substantial renovation she decided to stop renting it out after the last tenant moved 2-3 years ago.

Price, Condition, Access. 

I plan to rent it for a few years and sell it depending on the market conditions in the future.

Property Condition: when was it built?  

Adam,Things are highly subjective to what / where / condition.

what it sounds like you are asking is illegal in many ways, section 8 laws, local laws, duel contract laws that conflict, there always has been also those out there looking to catch you breaking them,  avoid it, dont offer it, dont entertain it, there is leeway up if the tenant meets certain conditions, say need 1 floor rental, if not rent may be inflated over realistic market, which is what rented at not listed at, keeping in mind sec 8 market rents also include utilities paid, you can usually reach by email fastest, they have set chart, heat type, neighborhood etc, more than listings found online