Texas, with its strong tech hub and job growth, is worth exploring, but home prices are higher and rent-to-price ratios are often below 0.5%.

This eliminates the requirement for a new down payment since you are refinancing the existing debt.Lenders typically require:A copy of the owner-financing agreement.Proof of on-time payments (6–12 months).What to Do:Find lenders that offer rate-and-term refinancing for owner-financed properties (portfolio lenders and DSCR lenders often do this).Maintain a clean payment history.” 

Here’s what I recommend:Cash Investments:No Debt, No Stress: With cash, you avoid third-party control and loan vetting, giving you full control of returns.Equity Builders: Partnering with builders often reduces your property entry cost by up to 20% below market value.Consistent 10% Returns: With an all-cash approach, achieving 10% ROI is realistic and efficient.Financing Strategy:If cash isn’t feasible, consider a balanced financing model:40-50% Down Payment: Keep leverage manageable while maximizing returns.Lower Debt Exposure: A conservative loan-to-value ratio (LTV) reduces risks and keeps returns stable.Work with a Builder: Collaboration with builders can lower acquisition costs and increase your ROI.Key Takeaways:If possible, prioritize cash for simplicity, control, and consistent returns.Financing can work well with a disciplined approach to debt and a strong underwriting process.Partnering with builders offers opportunities to reduce costs and enhance your portfolio’s profitability. 

Also - I am an out of state investor, generally speaking, how often do you send your tree guy to inspect the trees in your rentals to check if they are ok or need to be cut?

This type of tenant will walk all over you in the future if you don't stop it now.

They are often young people who have been sold a line that this is where you start in real estate if you have no money. 

This range often lacks economies of scale and doesn’t attract institutional-level investors.

Living in the property allows you to take advantage of owner-occupant financing, which is often more affordable than investment loans.

@Nick Belsky gave you great advice.In this situation, best to keep it as simple as possible, and I often give two offers; first, perhaps an all cash (way below market) and let the owner know that it is what it is--a below-market offer.#2 would be the seller holds the financing--I wouldn't go to a 30-year amortization, especially with an 80-year-old seller. 

This is a more affordable option but only protects against named events.Comprehensive Coverage: Often called “all-risk” coverage, this protects against most unexpected events, except exclusions like flooding or earthquakes, which usually require separate policies.