I don't see how that stands any chance of success and would characterize that as the one of the riskiest investments possible.

I know for myself, it would be terrifying to walk up to @Jay Hinrichs because of his success and the characterization I perceive of him through the forums.

No.1 reason for such unhealthy market conditions could be low interest rates that were characterized as "artificially" low by someone. 

If the goal is try to characterize a payment for past services rendered as an "equity investment" that will result in "non-taxable" income to the recipient and a future "tax loss" to the "investor" when the investment ultimately "fails," trust that the IRS has seen through that kind of dodge before and will see through that kind of dodge time and time again.    

Ryan has been and will be mercilessly characterized by the left's PACs as throwing Grandma over the cliff.

The IRS determines real estate dealer status based on the "intent" of the taxpayer holding or buying the property.The characterization of gain or loss on the sale or exchange of real property turns on whether the property was held "primarily" for sale or investment.The Courts have come up with their top fifteen items that they look for in determining the status:1.

But, I would not characterize my numbers as "worst" case.

Podcast #79 may be another good perspective if you have not listened to it.As far as crime goes, my investment area is characterized as follows: as a female, I feel comfortable at my properties in the daytime, would not be there alone after dark.  

Right now, I would characterize myself in the accumulation phase, as I am essentially stock piling cash to be able to put down the down payment and have plenty left over to account for any unforeseen expenses (repairs, vacancy, etc.).My question is, where should I be keeping this cash?

Those outfits that are typically characterized as providing free legal aid for tenants are really supposed to be neutral and work to find a resolution that works for both of you.