I feel I can control the cashflow side much easier.

You are emotionally invested in matters largely outside of your control.

Sounds like you will own, but he will control(I don't like scenario)..

You get the deed, make the payments on the seller's loan, the seller has very little control.

As in many foreign countries like India, Africa, China that are investing in USA there is often a small middle class in there home countries and a small set of 1%'ers in the upper class that CONTROL to much for there own greed.

I see no rational reason why anyone would de-lever their balance sheet any faster than necessary when you can borrow for free or be paid to borrow money.  

Avoid the rent control areas and focus on areas that can provide a 7+ cap rate (instead of aiming for 10+).Have you focused your search only on the west side or any part of the county.

@Rafael FlorestaWe run/control our crews due to the amount of inventory.AC

They wouldn't make any money if it weren't for home controllers like you.

However, I noticed that the price to rent is comparable to the fixed monthly costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance, condo fee) if I were to purchase a place, and I would have control over making modifications to suit my needs.