Contrary to popular belief creative financing = risk. 

If a real estate investor conducts activities that were popular 5 and ten years ago in blending installment contracts, most likely they are in violation of law.

There is a reason that asphalt has been so popular for so long.

If you are in a popular area for students though sometimes you can get more for a student rental.

I know this option is becoming a bit more popular with builders so maybe just look around.Even in a case where you buy a house hack now and are paying what you pay currently in rent I would still think it is a good deal since you have the ability to own property within the Wasatch front.

Fresh paint in warm neutral colors like greys are popular nowadays.

Btw, the bank has put the propert back on market through a popular auction website hiding the oil tank and possible contamination issue (also advertised as financable), hoping they could pass on liability and make a deal.

Far from the most popular answer, but over funded whole life policy ala Nelson Nash be your own banker.  

For tenant friendly state (let say California) it is definitely popular approach...and on other side, for landlord friendly state (Texas for example) is less likely to see cash for keys.One more reason to know your game and your exit strategies when the things goes south... 

We have 3 major investor associations in Milwaukee, the AASEW focuses on buy&hold, the REIA more on flipping and the third one is the very popular Brew City FB group.