Just both of you be on the deed & bring your funds together.

Rates are usually better with LLCs, and given the liability protection, LLCs are probably a better choice.

I could put a mortgage on the property, I was quoted 60% LTV with 8% rate amortized over 15 years.

Floating rate gets a bad rap.  

I am also wondering about vacancy rates in general in the Memphis area.

Domicile: WA State (income tax free)Property location (Texas): (income tax free)LT gains + Depreciation recapture ~ $300k on a $500k income property ~effective / average tax rate = 12% for past umpteen yrs (relatively low income, avoiding IRMAA and doing Roth rolls (no 'realized' income, just transferring from tIRA to Roth = vast majority of annual MAGI income)In the end (coming soon, ~17 yrs) ALL remaining estate will go to charities / Charitable Foundation / DAF.

Bryant that is very true, we are looking to operate under the states affordable housing guidelines in hopes of utilizing state funding so that's definitely a big one.

I want to put in place some incentives for new tenants and want to know if anyone on BiggerPockets has done something similar.Here are a few ideas I have had:First Month Free: Sign a 13-month lease and get your first month freePets: No pet fee for the first 6 months, year, etcRent Discounts: Offer a discounted rent for the first month or two fortenants who sign a pre-lease agreement before a certain date.Waived Fees: Waive application fees, administrative fees, or securitydeposit for tenants who pre-lease.Free Utilities: Offer to cover utilities such as water, electricity,or internet for a certain period for tenants who sign a pre-lease.Upgrade Packages: Provide upgrades or amenities such as free parking,access to a fitness center, or a smart home package for those whopre-lease.Gift Cards or Vouchers: Offer gift cards or vouchers to localbusinesses such as restaurants, cafes, or grocery stores as a signingbonus.Flexible Lease Terms: Offer flexible lease terms, such as shorterlease lengths or the option to renew at the same rate, to incentivizetenants to pre-lease.Refer-a-Friend Program: Encourage current tenants to refer friends orfamily by offering them a reward if their referral signs a pre-leaseagreement.Early Move-In: Allow tenants who pre-lease to move in a few days earlyat no additional cost.Guaranteed Parking: If parking is limited, offer guaranteed parkingspots for tenants who sign a pre-lease agreement.

Given these reasons, I'm assuming all improvements and spending should be deductible at the pro-rated amount. 

I agree.I don't think the golf simulator will guarantee you extra income, bit the ADU would get rate extra cash.