The purchase was unique ended up getting the house for the cost of a funeral, back taxes, and medical liens.  

I hate to be the bearer of news, but 640 and 780 FICO scores are not both "good credit" that you can apples to apples compare Mr Academic.Lenders do still, more or less, target regions with interest rate pricing.

@Chris Forbes -- Some things to consider:Class of property -- If it's an A class property, then tenants may be willing to pay more for the unique and high class amenities, such as a pond and garden.Price vs. cost -- Look at the neighborhood and compare it against other properties in the area.

There are several in the region with different styles and areas of focus, pm me if you'd like to chat.

The controlled property/rental management in Seabrook seems very unique.  

Every partnership and situation is unique.

As normal, I like to post the unique deals that I think you can learn the most from. 

You could find and occupy one unit in a multifamily property that meets your family's needs, and generate investment income by renting out the other unit(s).I am not sure what the RE market in your region looks like, but 50K should open quite a few doors.

If she is really anal about her "super secret lease" language, offer to sign an NDA (non disclosure agreement) which your lawyer can draft, that says you can't use anything unique in her lease, to design your own lease.

There can be many unique reasons.