Do they offer any other services that would benefit you?

It’s to your benefit to learn how to buy Properties using Subject To, at a discount, safely.Subject To Has 5 phases (ok, there are more, but I’m covering these 5 for now) JI did a spreadsheet on how to figure a good deal on Subject To.

The other benefit of having a structural engineer look and advise on the property, is that you can then use that report as proof to a future buyer or tenant.  

It was to my benefit that I could get in early and be rent ready.

I know the tax hit isn’t ideal, but I’m wondering if the long-term cash flow benefits outweigh the opportunity cost.

But in reality, for younger people with moderate income, I actually see less benefit to financial planning.  

Just curious, is there any tax benefit to filing as a regular partnership and issuing k-1s to ourselves that show a loss?

As far as benefit to the seller goes, @Matthew Paul I think you are probably right on the money and regardless of whether they would have preferred to stay in this house rather than move, it is likely providing them some excellent cash flow; and I'd be hard-pressed to come up with a deal that serves both parties better than the current situation. 

It does not benefit them in any way to save costs; it costs them money and time.  

And I feel the ideal portfolio can benefit from the diversification of both.1) Holdfolio isn't a match for me, personally (due to not enough experience, skin in the game, etc).