If you want new build, I'd go for "almost new" so you can stick with promulgated TREC real estate contracts rather than builder contracts which are typically extremely lengthy and padded with builder "outs"

I then realized that there are many parks out there (at least in my area here in Denver) that buy homes from residents, put a minimal amount of money and work into them and then turn around and finance them to buyers (often at very lengthy terms).

The constant flow of renters is both good and bad as far as high turn over due to the military base, I definitely agree with that. 

The correction which is taking place now has been long overdue.

I would check your state laws to see what that time length is, but i can't imagine that it is 14-15 years. 

lease length is always a issue ,, I've only rented month to month, owned and managed properties and if can say if a tenant want's to leave in the middle of a 12 month lease, that's just what they do. either they skip or just plain could give a hoot.. and if they are lousy tenant your stuck till the lease end to give notice of non-renewal or are trying to figure out a legitimate way to bring cause for eviction..

Even though its a year overdue, congratulations on the MH investment! 

A recession is overdue and I am hoarding cash to take advantage of it.That said, most folks that got caught holding the bag back in 2008 turned to vacation rentals to carry their homes, and were successful doing so. 

We are long overdue.

@Kevin Gregoire It actually does not need much work at all, just around $3k in repairs that are overdue.