Here is a good handbook to go over also. https://multco.us/file/9038/download You are going to be answerable to the Fair Housing Authority to most extent, but will have some freedom, but you are a landlord, take money, not just a roommate.

Did you call or did you send a questionnaire that was accompanied by a signed authorization from the prospective tenant to disclose info? 

https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/forget-br...The search bar on this website is terrible, and doesn't make finding things easy - I literally put in the author and BARRRR and it still couldn't find what I was looking for --- I googled the same thing, and it was 2nd on the list.This may be what you were talking about, if not, still good info. 

And I get the tenant applicant to sign an authorization form that allows me to contact the landlords.

After that, they should check with their local Housing Authority to see what programs they might qualify for. 

He says, that over the last 10 years, he replaced ceiling fans, and doors (all UN-authorized and news to me) so that should be considered rent money.

Does Anyone have a good letter to send to the homeowner so a third party authorization form can be signed so I can do a payoff.. thanks all help will be appreciated

Note that this case was enacted before the passive activity rules were enacted in the 1986 tax reform bill and likewise before the 1993 creation of the real estate professional designation.But at the end of the day, if you're looking for primary authority in the code or regs saying, "You don't need to be a real estate professional to claim the home office deduction for rental activities," you're not going to find it.Your best bet would be to challenge the CPA as to why he believes the real estate professional designation is necessary. 

@Devrie McCuistionDevrie: I'm sure others can speak with more authority on this, but my understanding is that you won't have to worry about short term capital gains taxes on the sale (or installment sale) of this property because it was your personal residence, and your sale price is below the IRS threshold for taxable gains on a personal residence.Best of luck!

Get recommendations from local investors.Next, you need to setup a limited power of attorney, authorizing someone you trust to make decisions when you are unavailable.