But at the same time, this market just keeps climbing, and it doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon.Suffolk is definitely more affordable than Nassau, but even out there, prices are getting ridiculous.

If they aren't charging a pre-disclosed & agreed upon Markup - they are probably hiding something to make money for their time.Good luck!

If your investing in another state / city I would say that a strong agent is extremely important - even if you arent buying deals on the market. 

Maybe even less than 5%

The refund part is just to get you get committed to another deal that makes them even more  money than that refund.

Unless you are hurting bad for a tenant, I would say no right off the bat, it sucks going some time without a tenant, but it sucks even worse when you cant get them out of the house and then they destroy it.

TN markets are still pretty free market so even if you do get cancelled there will be alternatives.

Might have a tenant that will sign a ten year lease and drop some money into the space.

Quote from @Chris Pontello: Hi Chris,Correct me if I'm wrong as I'm still learning creative financing solutions, but paying them some money would be if I could take over the loan.

Are you able to close the transaction (have enough money (and/or credit) ?