But the numbers rarely work for sfh's unless you pay half or cash for houses in large cities in decent neighborhoods because of the cost of the homes and property taxes. 

We value everyone’s input no matter how small or large and being a part of this community!

Can there PLEASE be an option to turn off the video ads on the forums?

Being that you are in Japan that ads additional difficulties.  

The home has an large unfinished space that is set up to be the 3rd unit. 

Adding complexity, you're trying to compare what is mostly an emotional decision(owning your own home) versus a more purely financial decision(investing in real estate.)

Of course buying HUDs is an option but be choosy because you may find a GREAT house in a not so great area.BANK and ESPECIALLY local Credit Union foreclosures are a dream, as owner occupied you can negotiate repairs, new wood flooring, HVAC units can be installed and cost added to the purchase price banks will add New Appliance packages and even BLINDS for all the windows.  

Adding a scammed contractor knocked me out of the game.

This would be a 203k purchase with 3.5% down and all of the renovations added into the mortgage.

He posts ads in the marketplace about getting probate and distressed seller leads. :)