No pocket listings = agents aren't even calling for new leads anymore, rising interest rate has nothing to do with an agent's ability to generate leads.If you mean multifamily apartments, 5 units and up, some of those agents will know, but not many until you are over 10 units which are more listed by only commercial brokers which I agree do understand seller finance.

This allows you to pivot when you can get a more favorable situation.Renting:Pros: Flexibility, less upfront cost, maintenance covered by landlord.Cons: Limited equity building, rising rents can strain affordability.Buying:Pros: Potential for long-term wealth building through equity and appreciation.

Assuming that this market will rise to the level of "everywhere else" and not inflate in relative lockstep with other markets may turn out not to be an accurate assumption.  

The stock market rises and drops daily (hourly). 

Some have a 20% down, but the rate rises significantly. 

Focus on neighborhoods with rising values and rents.

Where I am the current temperature is about 10 F right now.

There was a plumbing leak in the crawlspace under the house and is causing the high clay content soil to heave.....causing a 3-4 inch rise in the middle of the house flooring.   

I don't know if this is a recent trend that's come about with the rise in popularity of laundromats, but I've noticed more "fix & flip" situations on the market - mats being sold by owners who have owned for 1-3 years and put some significant improvements in.

A rising tide lifts all boats.