There were people in PA who got hosed because of some contract for deeds from harbour back in the day where I believe the current holder had to go back and reamortize the loan and some of them were paid off or close to it when the buyer thought there was still a good amount of UPB left.

My wife and I purchased our first home, a multi family, to house hack in late 2024. The property is in great condition and we got it at a great price! Downstairs 2br 1bath unit we are living in. Upstairs is 1br 1bath....

I spend all my time finding acq wholesalers who have deals and connecting with buyers.

The vast majority are not there and don't have any prospects of ever having such. 

If so, is that recommended for a first-time buyer?  

Honestly, unless you’re in a high-end market where buyers or renters expect it, dropping thousands on a sprinkler system probably isn’t your best ROI move—especially if the property has been sitting for months.

We finished the rehab and our agent, @Elyse Corcoran  was able to find a buyer prior to list. 

Plus, they look incredible, and buyers love the charm of them.2.

Owner financing as a buyer is a great tool to use.

Our group works with a lot of investor buyers in both locations you mentioned.