What kind of options are available that I could use to entice the seller to accept a 5-10% or smaller downpayment on a seller finance deal?

My life is taking an expected turn and I'm in a kind of pinch.

What kind of people are at the local supermarket?

The common theme from this is definitely last minute fees. 

Kill them with kindness and they'll take extra time to help you.

What if they break the lease is the most common one, accounting nightmare was another.

It's not super common, but not too hard to find either.

@Adam Bartomeo in the area where the property is, for the smaller units, it is common expectation that all utilities are included with the rent.

Another option to consider is using the space for Airbnb or mid-term rentals.Here in Texas, basements aren't common, but I found a home where the third bedroom had its own entrance right off the driveway.

It’s very common in my area to have roommates so that could be an option to maximize income from both units.