Then there is the wasted emotional drain and related work. 

can you take the emotions out of the relationship?

It sounds like you're in a tough situation, both financially and emotionally.

I know that degree is no joke and it shows you are both intelligent and disciplined.  

.$995 is great rent but you also don't want to evict if tenants can't pay because turnover costs can kill the ROI.Just my opinion  Looking back, I think a cheaper entry point could have been negotiated, but this one was my first ever purchase and I really wanted something to get my feet wet with. i think the emotional satisifcation of having a first rental was well worth a slight overpay. 

Hello Mark, Jumping into real estate can seem scary right at the forefront; however, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences not only financially but also emotionally and mentally.

Be proactive, stay disciplined & remain focused over long term investments towards wealth creation as well as financial independence.Good luck!

I would try to get creative here and figure out the emotion that is driving them to say cash only and tailor the terms around that. 

Plus, the emotional peace of mind from owning a home outright is significant, offering both psychological and financial benefits.

@Kai Sato-FranksWe have to remember it’s much easier to borrow money and pay it back, it’s much more disciplined to wait until you have enough money to pay for a property in cash.