The default rates on those that put little or nothing into the deal are astronomically higher than those that have skin in the game.

I am looking for the tenant to have skin in the game and hopefully not be evicted nor trash the place, in fear of losing "their" house.The model I am considering is a standard lease and a low cost, non refundable fee to purchase the option.  

Quote from @Deon Johnson: @Shiloh Lundahl I have talked to mentors and other investors I got the same response so I have pivoted to a wholesale deal with a small fee just to get experience and skin  I think that is the correct move

Pittsburgh is where we are going to settle down and we plan to then expand throughout Appalachian states.We have property management experience and personal funds to put skin in the game.

He has no skin in the game. 

I understand things aren’t always equal but if personal partner is going to become business partner I would want them to have some skin in the game.

Sellers often ask for more skin in the game because they’re taking on the risk a bank normally would, and they want extra equity protection if you need to refinance quickly.Banks can offer 20–25% down because you get longer terms, amortization, and stricter underwriting.

So I require skin in the game (average is 5% to 15%) to offset this.

I don't agree with not having skin in the game.You are borrowing other people's money to get involved in real estate or oil and gas.If you don't pay the note, they will take the property / investment away.

As long as you're showing progress and adding some more skin in the game, most Sellers / Brokers will give you a short term extension as Commercial deals are trickier and take more time to close.Hope this helps!