Then just deduct from their security. 

Pricing seems to be all over the place, and would love to hear about personal experiences any BP members have had with building or securing alternative house options.The housing market has discouraged us, so looking for other options to get out of our current home in Reynoldsburg, and into something with a bit more yard/privacy.

Also, per Ohio law (where my rentals are) you cannot be reimbursed for wear and tear items from the security deposit.  

The thing is that the SFH market is tough to get into with families and investors both bidding to get those properties whereas this townhouse I was able to secure an accepted offer with slight overbidding.

Heck, social security is increasing benefits 5.9% and that's still not keeping up with inflation! 

If so, it's true seller financing in that you take title at closing, the seller places a lien on the property for security, and you make payments to the seller. 

The purpose is to verify that the rent amounts stated in rent rolls are current and accurate, that the security deposit amounts to be transferred at closing match what the tenants have provided, that the number of occupants/ pets etc. in the unit match what’s in the lease, and that there are no other “side agreements”/ verbal or handshake agreements between the tenants and current owners/their representatives.

If the market is super competitive, then paying cash may be a great option to secure the property and then, as @Chris Mason mentioned, using delayed financing to secure a 30yr fixed rate mortgage after closing would be a great option. 

Also keep in mind in general crime is up, so think about security systems if it is a concern.Although this next statement probably won't make you feel better, but not all crime is reported. 

I would imagine it would be hard to secure anywhere close to those rates right now (they have gone up recently) even on your primary home.