my partner and i are looking to perchase our first joint venture we are trying to find a duplex under market value.

You might want to learn advance creative negotiation methods.I don't care where you go in the US, there are deals to be made if you know how to negotiate them.Maybe some ideas on creative methods will help you find what you are looking for.Try, Hybrid offers, delayed settlement, principal mortgages, vertical break ups, take backs, study periods, subject to public auctions, friendly joint ventures.Control and Roll is a great way to sell properties you don't own and to make fantastic profits.Charles

@Brent Spahnwelcome, Come joint our local landlord meetup. here is the link to our schedule you will certainly find local like minded people there.

I would not do individual leases but one joint lease with everyones name on it.

A partner or a Joint Venture is a good idea.  

I have also been entertained with the thought of doing a joint venture with a more seasoned investor who has the money if I bring the deal.  

Always have a back-up plan and be familiar with creative investing ideas (i.e. owner financing, lease options, rent-to-own, joint venture with contractors, pre-hab wholesaling)

You may be confusing documents and patterns.An affidavit death of joint tenant would be recorded along with a death certificate but would not necessitate a probate to effect an insurable transfer.There are summary probates in some state that require minimum court involvement.In my state, CA, a formal probate is required when the Decedent's interest and their total gross estate exceed $150,000.

Just in case it crossed your mind --- my first name, Nhia is pronounced as "Knee" "Yeah" altogether (I get asked often).  

I was already knee deep in the buying process when the new job opportunity materialized.