It is absolutely illegal - and by the way, it's also illegal for a real estate licensee to pay an unlicensed individual referral/finder's fees too. 

Cost segregation is a commonly used strategic tax planning tool that allows companies and individuals who have constructed, purchased, expanded or remodeled any kind of real estate to increase cash flow by accelerating depreciation deductions and deferring federal and state income taxes.When a property is purchased, not only does it include a building structure, but it also includes all of its interior and exterior components.

The key is analyzing each deal individually and adapting to changing market conditions. 

There are numerous ways to do it. 

A pre-approval letter states that it's been approved by an individual that is approved to do so.

Put locks on each bedroom door so individual tenants have security of their personal belongings.You need a really good set of rules regarding shared common space, cleaning, kitchen use, bathroom use, etc.Be very clear about the rules up front, and selective about who you put in there.

The IRS expects your cost seg report to be "factually intensive", "supported by corroborating evidence" and performed by a "qualified individual.”

If a cash out refinance, many lenders will allow the cash out to satisfy the reserves requirement.DSCR lenders generally let you vest either individually or as an LLC.

And still almost 4 month since then, I have asked Nomad numerous times for anything that would help me understand the new tiers and how its different from previous division of responsibilities. 

Once I start getting applications returned to me I set up showings, both individually and usually 1-2 open house style options.