I have chosen this niche for many reasons I won't go into here.  

It's gamble that's worth it at the price they've bought it at.

Carla is clearly not afraid of Foreclosures, and sees the opportunity to earn extra $$$$ & higher returns - especially on a well-chosen property in a strong local real-estate market.David is somewhat more risk-averse / conservative and just wants principal & [most] interest back as soon as possible , and is willing to forego some upside to decrease the probability, however low, of any kind of negative eventual outcome...   

Investing is not gambling.  

I am excited to hear that Atlanta, GA is hot at the moment as it is my chosen area to start off with.

Have you chosen an area of REI to focus on yet?

Let me be real clear that this property was so unique that it would be a gamble as a flip, so it only made sense if we were going to either a) live in it or b) rent it or c) do both, live in and rent it.

The speakers chosen for this event were inspiring, dynamic and really know their stuff.

Only the most desperate renters would probably agree to live there so the price of the property would have to be dirt cheap and cost you as little money as possible in the rehab to make it worth the effort.Your gambling that the surrounding area will be gentrified in the next few years and increase the property values.If this was in Southern California I would say yes absolutely but,the ATL may be a little harder to wait for unless the population booms there in the next 5 years.

I think you have chosen a great strategy in MF buy and hold.