After years of bidding wars and properties going like hot-cakes over asking price, it’s easy to forget what the market COULD look like if circumstances changed and the market dove into a BUYER’S market.Let’s look at the two side by side just for some “mental push-ups.”Situation #1Seller’s Market (Where we have spent the last 5 - 10 years)Very low inventory (real estate assets available for purchase on the open market)Low cost and easy to obtainLots of buyers ready to buyTHE RESULT: BUYERS COMPETE against one another in an effort to win the deal and they drive ASSET VALUES UP in the process.Situation #2Buyer’s Market (Where I believe we could be headed)Very high inventoryHigh cost and more difficult to obtain financingVery few buyers ready to buyTHE RESULT: SELLERS COMPETE against each other in an effort to win the BUYER.

Yes, they are legal but option contracts over 180 days become executory contracts and are then subject numerous additional requirements, and sellers using this strategy have serious liability should they circumvent any of these requirements.

You have to be able to get them to open up so that you uncover what's going on with their situation and the property, figure out their wants, and present why working with you on a rent to own deal is a good idea.I've been surprised numerous times in the past... 

Numerous events each month for both networking and education.

Hey JulieFirst to answer your question, yes, there a numerous lenders that either don't require reserves or will allow your cash out to act as your reserve. 

There is numerous other real estate investing podcasts that are great.

We listed our property for sale just about 3 months ago but after numerous price cuts, tons of showings, and no offers decided to switch from selling it to renting it.

Running numbers, finding/hiring contractors, walking numerous properties, estimating rehabs, and learning a market is more important. 

@Brandon Beardt - Out of those numerous creative financing options, are there a few that majority of investors rely on? 

I have spent an unhealthy amount of time following and reading numerous FIRE blogs, and podcasts for the last decade, however I am new to the BiggerPockets family and I look forward to chatting with you all in the future :)