That's not investing...that's speculation. 

I'm tired of speculating and guessing in my own head.

Speculative yes but not overly ambitious after doing the market research.

I'm just speculating that they don't want to rob the opportunity from others to have a chance at a successful investment in Mexico, like most investments there turn out to be.Conclusion: Great post mentioning the issues to pay attention to but I can't agree with the negativity of your conclusion.

For instance, according to Rich Dad, investors who factor appreciation into their exit strategies are speculators, not investors.

The idea is that the state doesn't want to have homeowners getting screwed, but investors are speculators so who cares. ;-)Some high level info below, but yes have a qualified attorney help you to make sure you're well represented...http://www.lonestarlandlaw.com/owner_finance.htmlEven when using a CFD you should do title abstract work on the subject property, even though the closing will likely just be in an attorney's office.  

Investing locally in the Bay is speculation in terms of hoping the market will continue to appreciate.

A one minute conversation leaves nothing up to speculation.

Seems like coastal California is a speculation play (difficult to get cash flow but appreciation might happen [which happened for my primary residence in Pleasanton but hey I have to live somewhere]) and Midwest is a cash flow play (difficult to get strong appreciation but cash flow seems fairly easy to get).

I'm going to speculate this might be one of them!