My goal is to offer an affordable monthly payment that competes with renting a comparable property and offers a benefit to paying a bit more to "own". 

Before jumping into the condo, I’d take a closer look at whether the $300/month cash flow is worth it compared to other options, like a small multi-family property or a property in a higher-yield market.

The article is off because it is comparing two different types of buyers.  

While these vendors are typically reputable and skilled, you might not get the best price compared to shopping around directly.

It also helps to show them the amount of interest they can get when they add up 30 years of payments (compared to the sales price). 

What the gurus don't tell you is that they are comparing market rents to the GROSS amount of S8 rent on a voucher which INCLUDES LANDORD PAID UTILITIES!

As much as prices have increased, comparatively you still get A LOT for the money.

What I have seen in the research is to find a property you are interested in and compare to other comps in the same neighborhood.

I would find a loan officer that does both conventional and FHA renovation loans to compare which has better rates and terms for your situation.

I don't know their fee breakdowns, but I can send you over a few to compare fees.Preston Garcia