Quote from @Drew Sygit: We give our tenants as many options as possible - EXCEPT picking up their rent.Exactly.

There are more options, but this is sufficient to answer your question. 

I can help you with financing options and help you analyze deals.

And use all of the proceeds from the sale in your purchases you'll defer all tax.This does give you some interesting options because you can allocate those proceeds anyway you want. 

Adding a 1/2 bath, new roof, central air or other typical improvements will increase the value of the property. 

Starting with remote investing, like in Charlotte, can be an option, but it might be worth exploring local opportunities in Orange County too.

.- Ask the attorney if your aunt & dad need to authorize lien, or just aunt.2) Understanding your options to force payoff of the lien.- Ask attorney how you can enforce collecting on the lien when you need to.3) Getting full control of the property, while allowing your aunt to keep her ownership.- Have attorney draw up a contract to do this.Suggest you offer your dad some cash, now or in the near future, to motivate him to transfer his ownership to you.It may not work out, but you will learn a lot either way!

My agent is saying that we are unable to split the contract that way (or reduce the purchase price), so I'm trying to figure out options.

Is there typically an ROI?

If you have questions or want to discuss financing options down the line, feel free to reach out.