Best practices on new purchase

[William Woodring]

I may be investing in 4 plexes in New Braunfels, Texas through Grocapitus. 

This is new construction.

Issue one

Should I demand that an appraisal be done before accepting the property and base the final price on this appraisal? 

I will be full owner. 

Second issue, 

Grocapitus is demanding 30% down immediately and construction doesn’t begin for a year, thus I am loaning my money to them free for up to a year. Should I demand this money be put in an interest bearing escrow account with the title company?

Third issue, 

What is the breakout on who pays what regarding closing costs? 

Anyone have any other best practices to recommend?