Not everyone is building, so I thought since my costs will be much lower than most, perhaps that's the way to go. 

If there's enough area for additional solar capacity you could even implement solar revenue by selling solar electricity directly to tenants for additional monthly income while also "green"-marketing a lower electric rate to tenants than the power company.

It may be enough leverage for you to get a lower price.

That can also allow for live-in flip like living for couple years and moving to next one...lower down payment like fha 203k etc is also great option for this...cheers!

If the seller is carrying back financing, typically that kills any chance of negotiating a lower price.

If you're still under 25% you'd payback at that lower rate, so the article is incorrect.

A 20% Deposit would lower the mortgage payment and eliminate the PMI requirement.With the low income and high mortgage payments it makes it a no deal.Maybe it’s a good deal for your Realtor (commission $$$$).

@Andrew Davis,You can either look outside of your area,  say within a hour or so driving distance... do out of state, or look in the lower income areas, and check out the streets and find a good house on a quiet street!   

When you convert a property to investment you use the lower of purchase price or the FMV at conversion.  

Lower acquisition costs 2.