You can always sell without an agent, but it could cost you more money and more importantly, money in the long run..think of it like this…maybe a strong buyers broker would’ve urged more caution with the initial purchase? 

I plan to save from my income for about 3 years or so.

Are you spending money on lead generation?

In growing markets I’d always recommend BRRRRs over flips if possible.You'll probably still have to keep money in the deal but it's way better than putting down the whole 20% LTV. 

Is the reason why this is lucrative to the seller because it's money that is able to be written off as a loss? 

Which would have kept more money in my pocket.

It sounds attractive because everyone says it is low- or no-money down, but if you don't have money to make the deal another way, you don't have much leverage to make the deal the way you are suggesting.Sub to and seller finance are shiny objects for people who want to get started in investing to make money, but have no capital.

This strategy requires knowledge of local markets, renovation costs, and the ability to manage or oversee renovations.I am a loan officer and I could advise you on how to tap into that equity and put that money to work.

For Section 8, if they damage your property they will LOSE their Section 8 money.  

Ultimately tenants who pay on time will do so regardless of the discount, so you are probably just throwing money out the door by giving money to people who would just pay on time anyways.I do recommend a discount for electronic payment.