That trend is starting to spread north into Zelienople and Evans City as well.

It's more commonly used in more expensive markets.It's more palatable to say $28,000 down + closing (3.5%) and the home is yours to FHA buyers of an $800k property in like an Austin or trendy neighborhood of Houston, than to just spit out the $800k price point.

That money in form of policy loans is not an investment return based on underlying investments it’s return of premium.Over the last 40 years I have seen universal life and whole life called different names, today the trendy name is “Infinite Banking”.

You have to assume that the current major employers (unless they are government or utilities) will die off over time.New business relocating to area - Unless new businesses are relocating to the area, the area is or will decline, as will your rent and property value.Population growth - Population trend is an excellent barometer.

From another post here on BP, the neighborhood is rated an “A:” “A: Only new construction and rehabs, with very very few shells and opportunity left, young trendy bars and coffee shops on every other corner.”

Time will tell if the trend is seasonal again or more permanent.

@Joe Splitrock I imagine the reason I am seeing these deals is because they are in more rural areas that aren’t as trendy or have more of a blue collar job base vs cities like Charlotte or Raleigh that are financial or tech hubs.

There are a few other city neighborhoods up that way that are fairly similar as well sometimes a little cheaper but with the same neighborhood quality that might be slightly further from trendy shops though a better bargain. 

First, I'd look at a longer term for your mortgage as it will lower payments which will increase your cash flow once you do rent it out.Easy ways (assuming they haven't been done already): fresh coat of paint, update light fixtures and cabinet hardware (go with classic, not trendy), replace outdated carpet and window coverings and paint your front door to add a pop of colour.

The trend I have observed is that it may not always add dollar for dollar on their exit in regards to sqft in reference to other non ADU comps, but has been close enough that they are adding this to their criteria and strategy.