You and your seller couldn’t provide a clear title.

The 2005 loan shows it as a first lien so I assume they cleared the history somehow but they are unwilling to share the policy.

If your market is leaning more towards shorter stays...which does seem to be the current demand nationwide...I would not cut your properties out of that demand!

Currently I am looking to buy and hold for the long-term with the goal of being free and clear by the time I retire ~20 yrs. 

This way I get paid upfront for my work 1-2k plus I know I have another payday at some point in the future if the deal closes.The costs to fully develop a property and sell for near retail usually involves the costs below and takes 2-6 months or more in some cases, but the profits can be huge if you're working in markets where land costs are high:Title 200-400Legal 500-2000 depending on zoning issuesIf wetlands are present AND its a buffer zone project: 2000-5000Perc & septic design if needed 1500-3000Treescaping & cleanup for retail sale 500-1500Selling costs of 6%I tend to stay clear of properties that need more than the above expense items.  

Those things won't matter if your business crushes it. i feel like it would matter when those things add up and start tearing at ur profit If banking fees cut into your profit, your profit isn't big enough.

I would appreciate your clear response and details on this.

A well written management contract should clearly spell out what is expected of both the PMC and the owner, to PROTECT both and avoid misunderstandings.

Starting with a mentor is very smart – it really cuts down on the learning curve, especially with something like a fix & flip.

It is most important that you have a clear understanding of the type property and the strategy you want to use (FLIP, LONG TERM BUY AND HOLD, STR, MTR).