In short, I can afford the additional $1100/mo cost of a second house, even until I rent it out.I have around $35K in HYSA and emergency funds that I could use for a down payment, but that's less than 20% which would be required for a conventional loan, assuming full purchase price.

If the prospects look financially shaky or sketchy, I ask for the name of a co-signer - and collect payment for a background check on them.Verbally, I also ask when they are interested in taking occupancy, and I tell them the application will be made part of the lease agreement - that I can evict them if they've lied in their application.

She originally asked for 2 balloon payments.

You will likely need to save up for your next down payment.

Seller was behind on pay HOA payments and in risk for losing the property.

The low down payment house hack is the way to go.

Given that the property was worth $390K in its current condition, I saw an opportunity to make the numbers work while keeping my upfront costs low.Instead of increasing my cash offer, I negotiated a $25K down payment with the seller carrying the balance for two years through owner financing.

They have twice given me notice that they were prepared to initiate eviction proceedings at the owners request, due to late or incomplete  payments.

One has a 162k mortgage, $1250 tax,Insurance,%3.5 30 yr, worth at least 750,000 LTR rent $3200, #2- Los Angeles worth   $750k as well just did a remodel of 150 K, mortgage is 75,000 payment $700.tax,Ins, Mtr/str hybrid.

However, our tenant turned out to be problematic—late payments, issues that led to an eviction, and additional repair costs before we could relist the property for sale.Now, after months of making mortgage payments out of pocket, we finally have an offer.