However, I want to ensure I'm properly structuring deals, receiving legal and fair compensation. 

As for the gift for the down payment, it's generally allowed, but it must be properly documented as a gift letter to the lender.

Some things to consider with the above suggestions of creating an LLC and contributing the property + $100,000.The basis the partnership has in the property is transferred from Person A.If person A's basis in the property is $100,000 but the value is now $200,000.The depreciation would be based on the $100,000 instead of $200,000 which may 'upset' partner B.Furthermore, you have to properly structure it so the IRS does not see it as a 'disguised sale'.A disuised sale can potentially occur when Partner B contributes $100,000 into the partnership and it is immediately transferred to Partner A.best of luck

Sure there are people who have done it but like Joe mentioned above is why your rate on HELOC is probably higher than your first mortgage so you'd only do it if your balance is really low and near the end of your term anyway so you're just getting it paid off quicker (like the last 1-3 years of payments left) becaues you want to get ride of the monthly payment and improve your cashflow now versus later.

:Class A Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% the more recent norm.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 680+ (roughly 5% probability of default), zero evictions in last 7 years.Class B Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, decent amount of relative rent & value appreciation.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, 5% should be applied only if proper research done to support.Tenant Pool: Majority will have FICO scores of 620-680 (around 10% probability of default), some blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 5 yearsClass C Properties:Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, high cashflow and at the lower end of relative rent & value appreciation.

Hi Austin,I would recommend you consult a Broker that specializes in buying and selling profitable businesses.From my understanding balance sheet is key in the due diligence process.

Quote from @V.G Jason: The excuses people make to invest at the most casual level is appalling.I'm not going to sit here and compare lives, but trust me folks with 20x the amount of stuff on their plate can go out there and invest properly in RE by doing their diligence.

I had one were my PM calls me its in INDY cold winter they just had baby cant  afford the rent and heat just take no payment for 2 months then they will add the balance any pay it off.. well of course after 2 months they just left  LOL..

To address these properly, we’d need to understand your complete tax situation, as many of these calculations depend on context.

@Mark Ainley and his team are great here.Hey @Timothy Galligan - I have several properties here in Chicago that are on section 8 and I can by far tell you the most important is having the right property manager who can vet tenants properly and knows the in's and out's of all the different programs.If you are interested in Chicago happy to make some connections for you!