If the number is too low, then the deal doesn't work.Check out my post below.  

So if an offer of $30k would get me my desired cashflow of $250 after all expenses (including saving for cap ex property management and maintenance) then I would start with an offer somewhere below that 30k mark and if the seller comes in higher you move on. 

The cash flow would be lower than just turning it into a rental since they'd have mortgage payments on it again, but the much larger depreciation deduction would likely offset that quite a bit and they'd have a bunch of cash from the sale.

Actually I always rent below market rent so I can get a bunch of applicants and choose who I think is the best one.

About me: 27/M, DFW area TX,Salary ~ 50k gross Rent + Utilities ~ 25% of salary (shared house).Car ~ 10% of salary (9k owed and 3 years left).Credit cards are usually paid off or Utilized below 6%Credit score above 750.6 month emergency fund.

Good suite mix: 9 2brs, 3 3brs, 6 1brs, and 2 bachelors.Average rent works out to be $750/suite, which is below market value.

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sounds like you have a great opportunity. i recommend the contact for deed route. as you mentioned you can get a lower down and more flexible terms. if you can get a 10-12 year ballon payment you should have no problem refi'ing out prior to that with a conventional loan and pay off owner contract. i would try to get the per unit down. you could try to show the total amount you would be paying when you add interest into the equation and see if he will come down on asking price, at least to market if not below. as well as play up the continued cash for with zero management headaches. ultimately if it cashflows well and you have good fixed debt for 10 plus years my experiences has been that price per unit is less of a factor. cash flow is king.

Rock Hill because of location directly below Charlotte.Alexriginally posted by @Abigail Helfer:Hello!

If the properties sold for more than what you offered, this is just a case of below average customer service, not shady business practices.