Further, we understand that many real estate investors view the use of leverage as key to the benefits of real estate investment, and that we wouldn’t receive any of that benefit through this transaction.What do people think?

Then ask them how much of an increase they think is fair. 

The early 2000's were a different world from what we know today (think Brittney or Kanye) but especially when it comes to real estate mortgages and lending. 

Thank you very much for your responses.So you think if at least the family member can pay for my expenses then it’s worth to keep it even if I don’t have cash flow?

We use Regions Bank - not sure what state you are in but I think they are just in the Southeast.  

Why do you think purchase contracts are so long and have such small print?

Seller's current asking price is $525,000 but I was thinking of asking at $450,000.Property is zoned CMX-1 and is currently configured as commercial downstairs plus two apartments upstairs and basically in Shell condition.

You will likely receive some credit towards the value but not as much as most people think. 

It's my woman, 9 month and me in the house so there's no option to house hack right now.I had the perfect opportunity to have a solid start in real estate but at the time I wasn't thinking this would be something I want to get into.

The other option I can think of is to take advantage of credit card offers you receive in the mail that include a few checks with a 0% finance offer for up to a year.