Verifying last 2 years of rental history and income extremely important to find the “best of the worst”.Make sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.The City of Detroit has 183 Neighborhoods we’ve analyzed.PM us if you’d like to discuss this logical approach in greater detail!

my experience has been (1) I can obtain the same rental rate for a 6 month lease that I can for a 60 day “stay” if FULLY furnished (2) some of these 6 month rental turn into 2 years or more.  

The seller has an existing mortgage on the property and would like to discuss a partial seller finance deal.

Has anyone had any luck obtaining legal counsel and fighting this?  

There's also discussion of intentional inflation, but is there any impact on real estate prices at all?

There's a good chance the issue(s) you face has already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

I was willing to offer some seller financing, and I was fine discussing the multiple.

Looking to discuss with lenders on financial options.Please DM methankskaushik Sarkar

Given the renewed concern of fire following LA’s fires and the potential insurance consequences, we have begun discussing the potential of reconsidering owning in the area. 

They could give you a more precise estimate and help navigate zoning regulations and permitting.Let me know if I can help or if you want to discuss your plans further.Best of luck with the project!