The location is also super important to know if it's in an amenity area, Rural area, suburbs.

Last but not least, is the location worth it?

Negotiation Skills: These agents have honed their negotiation skills to ensure they can secure the best deals for their clients.

I have a good credit score, but I'm concerned that given I'm going to have very low provable income for the next 2-3 years and not be able to secure a loan especially with a low down payment.

You can also hold the security deposit for those repairs (if you've stated those terms in your lease agreement).The short of the long here is that they're in violation of the lease and you are able to take action.

I have a connection to the seller which means I can get the location at a good deal. 

, my question is do you think an SF home located about 20 minutes from the RTP / RDU area appreciation will continue at a typical annualized 3% pace, and do you think rent will continue to increase OR do you think the influx of housing over time will keep home prices flat, and rent flat with it?

At your age, securing a W2 job to build capital and savings is a wise move.

So, the terms of your lease should be catered to that, with very strict insurance terms, personal guarantees behind any company signing your lease, requirements that lessee handles all repairs and maintenance, additional security deposits, and I would go so far as requiring minimum review quality for the host, limits on quality of guests they can accept, etc.And to your point about Airbnb not doing background checks, you are right.  

As far as location, it is very sought after as it is is very close to the airport, easy access to the Space Coast on the 528, the 417 will take you right to Disney and downtown is just West on the 408.