Hi: Like you, I'm not in favor of cash-for-keys but sometimes it makes sense if the alternative will cost you more.

I did not realize she was taking cash to the actual PFCU account until she was unable to deposit cash at USAA (since she's not a member).I offered to discuss alternate forms of payment, including wire transfer, etc (I'm 600 miles away so I can't ask her to come by my home with cash).

Are there alternatives?  

There are many good investments, including alternative investments like consumer loan crowdfunding (which has been returning me 7-9%).

Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code (1031 Exchange) works in conjunction with Section 453 of the Code (Installment Sale Treatment). 

Warning many relationships have been destroyed or seriously strained by business partnerships so I would exhaust other alternative, bank or seller financing ect. firstGood luck

Your current rental would qualify for 1031 treatment as would your new house if you could demonstrate that your intent was to hold it for productive use.

Just to spitball a possible alternative.

Electric resistance heat is more expensive than other alternatives.

US housing market improves as Chinese investors look for alternative safe havens.My personal thoughts is that the net effect will be close to nil.