Save it for a big repair bill?

i agree, i'm in the same place as you i.e if i buy a property the price can go down even 10% and it won't matter to me, that's true, but is there a downside to looking for an option that maximize the possible gain i can get?

@Brandon Turner often talks about saving $100 per month or so for CAP EX, but we might not need this for years (hopefully).

It saves substantial $$ on flips and leasing. 

To me to be less conventional and less professional to save a little money is silly. 

be organized.Example:3 months goalEnroll in real estate class-network and meet at least 3 real estate related professionalsSave XXX dollars toward first purchaseWork on marketing strategy, and overall strategy (define markets, focus will be SFR, buy and hold with 150.00 cash flow etc) 6 month goal--pass real estate exam--Save xxx--Improve credit score from 675 to 745make these goals quantifiable and specific, in other words you can cross them off when you get them done.The plan won't be perfect buy it's a plan and you show you are executing on it. 

The idea of doing this when I have very little cash saved up, scares me though.

I offered to rent it to them way below market value so the house is occupied while I’m away for work and in hopes they can save money to purchase it .

While the end target result is primarily the same for landlords (maximize rent, reduce expenses, asset appreciation, providing safe & affordable housing, etc.), the PM's have either zealously or begrudgingly had to incorporate new mediums and technologies in order to survive and thrive in this industry.  

Thus, you just need to save for the 25% down payment.