My point in bringing up the fact he continued paying is because he said to me in response to my letter stating he owes the difference in damages above the security deposit amount that he has nothing to do with her anymore, except it wasn't true because he still would write checks directly to me to cover her rent.2.

If you are working with an investor-friendly CPA, I would ask what you need to document to make it easy to write off the expenses.

But, when it comes time to put the deal together and pull the trigger: work with a seasoned real estate attorney with experience in structuring seller carry deals and writing thorough docs that cover your interests, especially with the "what ifs?"

I just personally don’t like his style and think he is more of a promoter than anything else, which can be said for many people we hear and see regularly.  

Give your interest statement to CPA when filing taxes for more write off. 

DC is also one of the most "renter friendly" places in the country, so really make sure you do your homework and consult an attorney when writing up your lease to make sure that your property and your lease is in compliance with rental law. 

If you won’t pay any closing or agent fees, I’d suggest stating that up front so everyone knows what to expect before showing or writing an offer.

Thank you so much for sharing your write up.

Look for agents with experience, local market knowledge, communication style, and connections to resources.

If they are VERY professional, they will have their processes in writing as verification that it is enforced equally and fairly by their entire staff.6.