You can make the same argument comparing 20 yrs to 30 yrs. 

My point was, the difference is small enough within the first 20 yrs of a 30 yr term to strongly consider that risk.BUT, very few people seem to take the risk of IO payments, which makes me wonder what I'm missing. 

I am shooting to close on my 14th STR (self managed) in the next 6 months (started/built/flipped and sold 6 others) over the last 9 yrs and I have only seen horror stories of those who paid for "experts".

I have owned my house built in 1985 and in good condition now for 8 yrs and I am the only one on the deed.

Are you wanting to get into and out of deal in 2-3 yrs, or hold for the next 20, assuming it is cash flowing for you.Beyond that, I would also set some general guard rails: minimum years in the real estate business, dedicated focus versus diversified portfolio? 

My wife and I have owned two family homes in 35 yrs ~ but now I'm looking for my first multi family house hack  Ty for post ~ it was helpful 👍

I see other new developments in the area offering Lease to Own for 3 yrs. 

I've done I/O loans for clients and they typically have the same mindset - they are going to be owning the property for 10-20yrs with no intention of selling, and the appreciation of homes is always positive over 10+ yrs. 

Rented it out for about 4 yrs.

They are buying at a 5 % cap rate with a fixed 5.7% loan amortized at 30yrs and first 2 yrs interest only, and they believe that they will sell at a 5% cap rate as well 5 long years from now.