I really seem to be stuck between a rock and a hard place, and I'm determined to break out.Help is appreciated,Matt Nico

I left a voicemail with the Assessor’s office to find out how they determine property assessed values.

Getting low down payment Bank loans for houses that need fixed/improved is also tough.typically appraisals are used to determine value of a house. 

Debt is cheaper, so it’s important to take advantage of opportunities with a buy and hold mentality.

I'm certainly not an expert on mortgage rates, but I know they're determined by supply and demand in the bond market.

To determine whether the property qualifies for protection under the “grandfather” provision would require more extensive research of the historical zoning maps and more information about the past use(s) of the property.It sounds like the particular lender you mentioned is going to require you to take some action with local government before they approve the loan (whether obtaining written confirmation that the property is grandfathered, confirmation of re-zoning, or perhaps even simply a letter from Knox County stating that they are not going to seek to strictly enforce zoning with respect to the property might suffice).

My concerns are:1) Renter mentality versus owner mentality -  I understand that finding quality renters for a mobile home can be difficult and I really like that selling provides the buyer with a owner's mentality and pride of ownership.  

That is probably not happening a lot right now.The mentality right now kind of reminds me of the old "Fall Out Shelter Mentality".If you don't know what a "Fall Out Shelter Mentality" is, here's a link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

I read something about that but it was confusing on how to specify/ determine whether the rental rises to the level of a trade or business rather than a passive investment. 

We have one eviction scheduled to happen late March and talked to the Sheriff yesterday.Our team may be forgiving some late fees next month, but that is to be determined.