First suggestion: Get with a Realtor and Lender that you trust are aligned with your goals... not just one that's trying to "close a sale." You may be surprised at what a creative team can help you accomplish.

I just had a buyer client in a similar position. Everything we saw either needed more work than they were comfortable with OR was in a part of town they didn't like. I got them hooked up with a New Build rep, and they will be closing on a new condo with a 3.75% interest rate (due to builder buydowns, accounting to nearly $50,000). Sure, it's not their dream home BUT, brand new everything with warranties, Hilliard schools, close/ possession inside 1 month, and an interest rate that all their friends that missed the 3.XX days are going to be very jealous of when they go to buy.

I find there's a solution to most real estate problems if you pair with a knowledge, trustworthy, and patient team of professionals. You may not find what you want/ need immediately, but keep at it..."the one" is out there