Meanwhile, the terms that you guys operate the property can be customized per deal which provides flexibility (e.g. what if one partner doesn't how the liquidity to partake in a particular deal).Like I said, there are a bunch of ways to structure LLC's depending on what you are looking for or trying to protect. 

Private landlords seem to be more flexible than the larger property management companies and we know we need to offer a higher security deposit/rent premium.

If you buy purely an investment, yeah you need to put more capital down but you can probably find something within a week or two.If you're patient and don't need to be moved into the househack by a certain date (i.e. flexible with your current living scenario) I would probably also go for the 4 unit in Chicago and just diligently look for the one that works for your lifestyle and investment needs and also qualifies for an FHA loan.

The small local establishments are more flexible and more creative with financing, in my personal opinion.

In my opinion what works the best is flexibility of design. 

At the same time, you need to cover yourself in case the behavior occurs again.Unfortunately, you can't treat anyone differently and there is a rigid system for deposits so there is no flexibility.

Being flexible with the timing of closing and seller leasebacks can make your offer more competitive in a hot market with multiple offers. 

It only but me once when I accepted tenants early on and they kept pushing the move in date up which meant I had to rush so either be clear when your move in date is or have flexibility on how soon you can get it done.  

It's economical and has quite a bit of flexibility for most use cases.  

., One real positive in doing a 1031 when you are selling to a tenant is that you can negotiate a flexible or extended closing date with them.