Have them give you a non-refundable option price to buy the property and a time frame, charge them a little above going rents for the convenience because it usually attracts people that can't go conventional, don't have the full amount for down payment and closing costs, or their credit isn't sufficient.

We've knocked out rental rehabs in time frames that make the client's head spin.... lifetime to date, I have exactly 1 customer who "Gets it" and is willing to pay us to do these kind of jobs for her over and over.

I am just starting out in Raleigh NC and trying to figure out what an appropriate time frame is before I reevaluate my requirements/qualifications for my rental.

A few nice (and inexpensive) amenities make tenants feel like there living in a place where the landlord cares both about the property and their comfort.  

Also, I'm not a big fan of the exit timeframe for the crowdfunding loan.  

I tell them, It's on my list, i just bought the unit, you need to give me a generous time frame. 15,000 sqft of bldg (6 units), is a lot of deferred maintenance to handle right of the bat ;p

I also think about all the renovation that I need and a time frame for it.  

I think Cleveland would be a great first step since it's relatively inexpensive and on the rebound.

I'm talking about very inexpensive properties so even if something went sideways, the risks are pretty minimal considering the capital outlay they'll require.  

This in turn makes these types of properties very inexpensive to purchase.