Well, I completely understand that it sounds risky at first. But, just like any other deal in real estate, you shouldn't make it unless you know it's a good deal and you've done your homework. If you have, this could actually be less risky because you have not sunk a hundred thousand dollars in a property. You're only in for it for the amount of your lease. And, if you're buying in a good location, it shouldn't be too hard to re-lease.
A technique like this could offer people like you and I a deal who maybe initially thought couldn't "invest" or do real estate. Leveraging other people's money is easier than most people think. The hard part is finding the good deal.