Rent back

Has anyone ever heard of renting an apartment back to a seller? I've been on the market for about six months now, and probably seen about 75 places. I've finally found one that makes me want to cry it's so perfect. Tricky thing is, I'm not planning on living in it for about a year. I know I know--why buy now? I'd like to ignore that question if the board regulars can manage. I feel like I'm getting a good deal on an apartment I love and the timing makes sense for other reasons. So my question really is--is there any downside (or upside, potentially) to renting to the seller as opposed to a brand new tenant? Has anyone ever seen this done? Thanks very much.