The income from the property pays off the debt, while you get the tax deductions, equity build up and appreciation.As to why people pay cash, many don't know, like or understand other alternative investments. 

A simpler alternative would be a t bill or short term Treasury fund, such as SNSXX if you want the same liquidity as a high-yield savings account.

Is an alternative arrangement where the builder builds at a discounted rate, and then the investor handles selling the property + gets all profit?

It doesn’t always pan out as a viable option but I always recommend considering this so you know your alternatives.

Alternatively, if there is a real estate agent/ Agency that anyone recommends, please let me know.  

Where/what platform do my fellow investors like to acquire alternate assets?

(don't think we have time or knowledge to pursue that) . alternatively the lender has asked us to work with a commercial lender.. we have not done any commercial loans so far, but basic research provides core diff is the 30 yrs vs shorter duration 10-15yrs in commercial + ARM (floating). 

NOTE: The 'State' field for name badge does not want to accept Arizona, I had to use an alternate state.

Builders and developers are increasingly turning to leasing as an alternative when they cannot sell homes at their desired price points.To succeed in this market, sellers need to be realistic about pricing and be prepared to make concessions.

Wondering if you guys know how much would Costar would cost.Any other alternatives to Costar and why?