Higher rates, but your credit and taxes don't come into play.  

My realtor has almost quit responding to me since he has so many more people willing to throw money at these properties that will never cash flow and are a pure appreciation play.

Give 60 days notice you are being played and your solution is not good at all 

Maybe play around with how long you want to leave that offer open. 

I need to find financing for them and I don't want to use my conventional slots.

So the scenario plays out like this when you get your final bill there is an add-on fee which was not agreed-upon or discussed.

If you don't need the additional income, looking to generate long term wealth, tax sheltering benefits, etc buying for appreciation may come more into play.

This may not work if you have to give notice etc but everyone involved from the judge to the bailiff new what was going on and the games that were being played and helped get it done.  

This could be finding off market deals, distressed properties or possibly development plays. 

If your goals are wealth building, then finding a market with great appreciation can be the better play (Hawaii being a decent choice for that and much of CA being some of the greatest for that).