Tenants have more options, and overpriced properties are sitting vacant longer.Longer vacancies = lost rent.Less tenant interest = fewer qualified applicants.Price reductions = you likely end up earning less anyway.A Real Life ExampleAn investor recently listed a townhome at $2,200/month instead of the market rate of $2,000/month.

Quote from @Ben Fernandez: Gotcha...I like your goals utilizing the lease option.

You’re thinking strategically, and it’s great to see you weighing all your options before making a move.

I interpretttev @Alan Asriants statement different than you but agree it is not clear   He could be indicating pools, basements, sunrooms do not provide a means for an extra tenant.  

As with any electronic item they can fail, so I keep an extra new lock on site at each property for maintenance to install if needed. 

While it might feel like an extra charge to tenants, these packages often provide value that indirectly benefits the property owner as well—like reduced maintenance calls or ensuring the property is better protected.In my experience managing a large portfolio of properties, these fees are becoming more common due to the thin margins in property management.

I'm a local youth pastor in MN and I'm looking into getting started in real estate so that I can provide extra income for my growing family.

Depending on your new job as a 1099/self employed, there are likely other loan options available that can work.

Another option would be a co-living arrangement utilizing a company like PadSplit.

I am on the lending side of things, so if you'd ever like to chat shop and options out there, let me know.