You can play around with the job aspect, if you are willing to look for new job to save money on taxes. 

Can somebody explain to me how the investor can play things safe when taking out commercial loans?

The safe play for me is probably to just buy an Investment property in Buffalo (I already have a good relationship with a PM here who would be a great resource for me), but for some reason my heart is in Ellicottville - the idea of being able to use a property as a vacation getaway for a week or two a year and then rent it out the remainder of the year sounds super appealing.

If the seller won't play ball, you might be best served walking from this deal and seeking more suitable space for your intended use.

Yep, it happens.....serial non payers of their electric bill go steal a meter when the power company takes theirs after they have been caught “playing with it”.

I noticed that deficiency judgements on purchase money owner occ only came into play in 09...

If market rent is much higher you might have a play to blend returns upwards.

Current market conditions won't matter that much of it's a long term play.

There may be a variable rate commission at play, so an even dollar offer could yield a higher net to the seller.

I don't believe in omens, but man was this podcast just sitting and waiting for me to play right after this viewing.