Self-sponsoring?

[dogmatix00]

Hi,

My parents have their visa interview in a month. Their situation:
(1) 2 children, both in the US ( a big negative, I have heard)
(2) Father still working, will take a leave of absence for a month, travel on LFC (leave fare concession, around 80% of thei ticket will be paid for)
(3) Apart from my fathers work, just the usual ties to the home country, nothing very substantial: property, old grandparents, moms widowed sister, etc.

One question I had was regarding support and sponsorship: I have read in these forums that self-supporting their trip will be a big factor in my parents favor, is that true? My brother plans on sending them support docs in any case, and then we will decide what way to go. I do not know if they have substantial amounts in savings (most of it is in property), and the last thing we want is a denial for lack of funds!
I guess I just want opinions on whether self-support is such an important factor.

Thanks a ton!

[immihelp]

If they can self-sponsor, that is better. Otherwise, one of your sponsor from US.