So a loss of about 55k We did a lease to own option so I could immediately take over expenses but keep their primary resident loan and interest rate.We agreed to a deal which would cover all their expenses at closing, their remaining loan balance, and $45,000.

@Collin StewartSince you're PCSing to Columbia, SC, and have VA loan entitlement remaining, house hacking a small multifamily with a VA loan is a strong option since it requires zero down.

If what we are feeling is accurate, the January data should show substantial increase in buyer demand.Jan 1, 2020 to Jan 1, 2025 InventoryWhile interest rates remain high, the demand from buyers is still strong.

FYI - not legal advice.If it's not a formal assumption and it's a straight sub-to, typically the seller remain personally liable for the debt if the investor defaults.Essentially, what can the investor do better than the seller after refinancing the property? 

Your point about it being more attractive remains valid, however. 

Yet they remain!

All remaining NOI seems to go into this reserve. 

.🔹 Ideal in Any Market – Whether home prices are rising or falling, lease options allow you to lock in today’s price while benefiting from future appreciation.Other creative strategies—like seller financing, subject-to deals, and the BRRRR method—can also open doors, but lease options remain one of the most powerful, low-risk, minimal cash out-of-pocket ways to build a portfolio.

If they are elderly or disabled the court can grant them up to a year to remain in place (they do have to pay use and occupancy during that time).

Ballantyne and South Charlotte are experiencing continuous growth, and the demand fundamentals remain strong.