Don't start throwing ideas at them like seller financing or numbers etc until you have an idea of if they actually intend to sell and what their needs are around the sale.

We’re working in a smaller market like Cornelia, GA, where comparable sales data can be limited, and want to make sure we present a strong case to lenders.

@Zach Denny - I agree - chances are the institutional lender won't be comfortable with an owner-financed 2nd and 100% combined loan to value.

BUT I have also heard that it could trigger a due on sales clause, bringing the note fully due at any moment.

Then, gather evidence like recent sales of comparable properties to support your case.

If this is a Class A property in a Class A area, you have the least chance of getting a bad tenant. 

No chance I can be finished with the house by then.

Being that rates are up it's another way to offer exatly what you mentioned; the chance to own for a couple hundred bucks more than renting.Thoughts?

In the “old” days, people would have the seller pay the lender so as to not “alert” the lender that a property sale had taken place, so that the lender def wouldn’t trigger the so called “due on sale” that’s a part of almost every mortgage or deed of trust document.  

There’s zero chance I would move out.