I believe it is the most underutilized loan program, but I can understand the fears of the unknown.

You may or may not see the option to add a wet bar that could function as a kitchenette, and you can always ask the builder about adding that in, along with a door at the top of the basement stairs.The numbers wouldn't look great on new construction in this area, but you must consider that your maintenance/repair budget would be pretty low for 15 years: no HVAC replacement, roof, etc.

Joel Block's Dealmaking Symposium is the best education around in my opinion and he isn't running a shill program to try to raise money for his projects. 

I believe it is the most underutilized loan program, but I can understand the fears of the unknown.

keeping in mind you have programs in MD that offer 100% financing through the county & Federal programs. 

There's already programs out there that will winterize homes for low-income by changing windows, adding insulation, etc.

Make sure you contribute fully to your employer's retirement program and/or IRAs to max retirement savings in your 20's.

We've reached out with: attempt to create a partial payment plan, provided info on every relevant grant or assistance program available to them, provided info on local employers who were hiring, and offered cash for keys if they moved out.

I have zero specific knowledge of this other than knowing someone who has a house with a video game addiction program out in the country where no one knows and no one cares....but my gut says you would have zero chance of doing this with a townhome lease because on top of every state, county, city and ward issue you will need to navigate, you have the homeowners association and very close neighbors who will raise holy hell.

I would research the 1031 Exchange program.