Quote from @Jyotin Gautam: Yes, a referral agreement can stipulate that the referral fee be paid at closing to ensure transparency and expediency.

Partner Driven saw an opportunity to create significant equity through strategic renovations.

Between the time associated with making the investment, tied up capital and associated stress involved, even if the investment breaks even or produces a small gain most would look back and wish the money sat in their account until a better opportunity presented itself.

In a previous post, I discussed the difference in each of the most common cost segregation study approaches.

Had the proceeds from my previous sold property.

The day after you close, it will appraise for the sales price. 

I hired a surveyor,  engineer and ran through the process with the city myself. 

The biggest reason I would advocate for mixed use is for the reasons you mentioned, the leases are longer, but also the general "issues" around tenants on the residential side don't come into play as much or at all. 

Everywhere I turn all I see are pitches for affordable housing and the same (not so) compelling arguments regurgitated by syndicators, capital raisers, brokers etc. for the investment strategy....strong returns...lower volatility....supply (huh?)

Through realtor.