Terms such as interest rates and payment schedules are typically negotiable.Combining creative financing with seller financing can include strategies like:Subject-to and Seller Financing: Taking over the seller's mortgage and financing the equity portion through the seller.Lease Option: Renting with an option to buy while negotiating seller financing for part of the purchase.Wraparound Mortgage: Keeping the seller's existing loan while they finance a new loan that includes the balance.To proceed, consider connecting with experienced investors, understanding local legal implications, and attending networking events to gather insights.

And a local resident is usually very helpful.

The key difference, though, was he spent months carefully getting to know the local architecs, reputable builders, and even a couple of niche design firms that specialize in modern builds for mid- to high-end buyers.

My experience has always been better with a local lender.With that said, I am reaching out to David Greene's The One Brokerage about a refinance.

Perhaps reach out to local agents who work with a lot of buyers in your market and see if any of them need a place to rent while they house shop (inventory is still low).

Please advise.ThanksMel I'd recommend a local Independent Agency that has access to multiple markets including surplus lines

Check with your broker and make sure this fits with your local laws.

For several reasons (property taxes, politics), I would prefer to begin real estate investing somewhere other than locally. 

Do you rely on inspections, local contractors, the agent, or property managers to get eyes on it?

Suzanne, This is impressive - love to see deals being made in my local market.