If you really don't value your agent's ability and think you can do it better, it's likely best that you 1) interview more to find one that you do trust, 2) go through the listing agent, directly, if you're that comfortable with handling your side on your own, or 3) maybe get your license so you can control your side of negotiations with the proper tools needed (MLS access with agent info, showings, contracts, tax records, uploaded listing docs like surveys, disclosures, broker assistance for questions, etc.).

In our case the seller needed the loan off their record to purchase a new home so we went through the proper channels to make that happen.

I'll just add, that if you've done these types of deals or similar deals before, having accurate and up-to-date financials (aka bookkeeping records) for those previous deals to be able to analyze the numbers would be a great tool to use to make informed decisions about future deals.And, even if you haven't done deals like this before, keeping updated financials for the deal you're doing is going to be huge as you're making decisions throughout the rehab.We call these data-driven decisions.

Stay consistent by buying properties regularly, keeping a record, and networking with investors.

Typically we get a copy of their license / identification and pull credit etc after they sign a credit authorization form.Typically notarized documents are needed when recording them with a county, but for a contract it’s very rare to have contracts like a lease notarized.

Assets identified in this study include:Building systems: water heater, electrical distribution, HVAC, plumbinPermanent Fixtures: windows, doors, bathroom fixturesStructural Components: Roof construction, drywall, wood framingInterior Construction: Wood flooring, stairs, ceramic tileThis engineering-based cost segregation study included the following methodology:Physical Inspection through a site visitDocumentation review including architectural plans, accounting records and construction documentsA cost analysis which utilizes engineering principles in order to allocate costs to their applicable asset classificationsCalculation of the depreciation schedule using MACRSAs a reminder, bonus depreciation started to phase out in 2023.

Is it possible that you got quoted title, insurance, escrows, recording fees, etc. that were less than the actuals?

You would have ongoing filing requirements with the State and would need to keep business records and documentation.

I don’t think this is the borrower homestead since the records have a different owner address than the physical address.This is confusing because we aren’t buying a foreclosed property, we would be foreclosing to take possession.

@Paul @Paul Hurtubise especially family, it's not a law and you can do it yourself, but yes record a second deed of trust if you want money from them.Good Investing...