That is what a rule of thumb does it allows you to accomplish MORE with LESS effort therefore getting more done faster (time wise). 4.

I specialize in building and flipping properties, focusing on transforming houses into beautiful, functional spaces that create value for buyers and investors alike.With several years of experience in real estate, I’ve developed a strong foundation in market analysis, design, and project management.

And you still get the same benefits in terms of tax benefits (depreciation is a beautiful thing), rental profits, principal paydown and appreciation. 

  @John Underwood beautifully said

The “I helped the seller by a sub to purchase” and the “you screwed the seller by a sub to purchase” are both correct AND incorrect.Because it depends on whether the seller was provided with a full disclosure of the ramifications and possible consequences of entering into a sub to transaction; whether the seller is mentally competent to understand the ramifications and consequences, and whether the transaction is accomplished without lying to the lender.

Fast forward a year later I am at home (Chicago) and find myself in the beautiful suburb of Oak Park.

Do I give up access to transportation, restaurants, cultural activities, doctors, emergency medical care, religious and business activities, vet care and maybe more, to live in the country on my ranch or on the beach in a beautiful country, or do I keep access to all those things and live in the city? 

While they are beautiful and get you top dollar, many come with tax abatement that expire in 5 years and will significantly reduce your cash flow once expired. 

You will see one street with beautiful homes and the next street will have several run down homes and then the next with beautiful homes again.  

Could that be accomplished through a purchase contract (that lasts x number of years)?