They get a higher return since they are covering housing cost, have the $250k per spouse primary residence deduction in gains, is a savings account, higher leverage position, lower interest rate possible, will pay more premium for location, etc.House might be overpriced for REITs but not for home owners.  

Both strategies are great and have their pros and consOne of the biggest wealth building tools in real estate is the ability to purchase a property as a primary residence and put less then 20% down.

We were able to get into it with a 5% down primary residence loan.

Repairs made while the property is your primary residence are not deductible, but improvements can increase your cost basis, reducing future capital gains tax when you sell.

To me, I would just accept Zelle and update Avail if possible and look to see what the tenant is looking for in terms of repairs, how much rent you'll get from them, and if you want them as a resident.

Typically, we conduct background checks on only the individuals who are responsible for the lease (primary resident) and/or cosigners.

However, are you planning to do a 1031 exchange, or is this a primary residence? 

Who has closed a subto deal for a primary residence?

Investment Info:Single-family residence fix & flip investment.

With that said, here is an opinion: You cannot write off anything you use as a personal residence.