We are not fearful whatsoever of the coming downturn.

I believe the seller was very fearful that he would get "caught" and end up in legal trouble, or that we would report him to the state if he backed out, which we did not do.

Would like others' view of the market - seems to me quite volatile to invest in currently, and fear of real estate bubble has cause me hesitation in purchasing.  

gonna google-stalk this guy and his church a little and give him a call to ask some questions tomorrow!

@Bryce BuntonAs I feared, seller it wrong. 

The fearful part of turnkey is when they select the tenant and you acquire their tenant. 

That said, there is money to be made where others fear to tread.

You are left with the difficult task of distinguishing reality while managing your fears.  

Check with Julee Felsman - She is a wonderful investor/lender https://www.biggerpockets.com/...Yeah, my DTI might be a concern depending on how rental income is counted, but the reason I think I was more told it wouldnt be underwrited is that the lender fears that I would not occupy this new duplex I plan on purchasing.

I am not looking to over leverage myself, and at the same time I don't want to let a lack of education or fear hold me back.