So, if you write an offer for $100K, but are willing to pay more if there is a competing offer, you can write your offer of $100K, with an escalation clause up to $110K with proof of a legitimate offer.

Payroll would be anyone on a legitimate salary (or an hourly maintenance guy), other than the property manager.

So maybe my own handyman company sending myself a bill legitimizes things?

Legitimate lenders get paid at closing by the closing agent and/or over time by you via your loan payments.

I only suggest that b/c you are clearly (and legitimately) concerned about the relationship with various members of your family. 

I have never bought assets from him as I deal more on non performing but his group (colonial) is a legitimate organization.Of course you always need to do due diligence on every note to purchase.

You can operate in the gray areas trying to appear as a legitimate end buyer as suggested by the gurus on.

Government has no place regulating private property unless it is causing a legitimate and proven nuisance.

Initially, I would find a legitimate buyer, build a relationship with them and start bringing them deals.Send them the details, ask what they would pay and then get it for less. 

I'm green but I'm reading all the legitimate material I can find on RE investing.