So in this case, clearly we can check the "Cash" box, but still use hard money, a HELOC, or whatever.

Unfortunately you really need to treat with bait boxes.  

I can very much relate to that.I have a daughter who is a total entrepreneur, runs a gym and is a licensed boxing instructor in Barcelona-she is also a bee keeper.

@Travis Timmons not seeing any holes in your plans you seem to check all the boxes for success.

The house was Active for 80 days and it checked the box of my #1 must have: it was in the neighborhood I wanted.

Often direct mortgage banks or lenders have an asset allocation monthly, quarterly or seasonally that they utilize to fund loans that are outside of 'the box' or need specific terms or conditions to qualify.

Also, thinking outside of the box can help avoid issues. 

I entered "1" for the mortgage on the property that is paid off and I  entered "1" at year 19  for the property with 18 years because it did not calculate it even though I entered 18 in the Financing Assumptions box.

A forced air unit is just a box of components.

How will this affect myself and my siblin regarding the IRS in terms of gift of equity, etc.I have spoke with a couple lenders that really can't think outside the box, and don't know how to answer these questions.