However this last tenant left our unit in a very damaged and extremely filthy state that took considerable work to remedy (which was a surprise because they had been pretty responsible until this event). 

An attorney whom I am working with has informed me that he "cannot facilitate a seller-finance transaction that does not convey the property by deed at closing."   

Hey Chandra, applying part of the rent toward the purchase price motivates buyers by helping them build equity.

They are engineering those returns by over raising equity.  

Do I need additional projections and insurance to protect my assests or will I be covered by my LLC. 

Potential Advantages- Growing Housing Market: The median home price in Shelby has increased by 16.6% year-over-year, reaching $295,000 as of July 2024.

but... in my experience, you will be in a stronger position if you build a network of humans by going to real estate meetups and really learning a market.for example - here in Pittsburgh we have a lot of old houses that need big rehabs. and the best software / AI in the world can't help me, because it doesn't know the conditions of the interior, the sewer line, etc. for most of them. 

Some want it approved by the AHJ (Authority having Jurisdiction).

Most experienced investors can offer sight unseen with 0 day inspection period by knowing the year of the house, square footage and if there has been any repairs done recently to the property.

They are looking to expand by either acquiring or leasing more houses.