Often the debtors will refuse to acknowledge these liabilities, while obviously aware of them, because they are dumping them on purpose.Second, if the property has a high risk issue then make attempts to due process notify the debtor or the heirs. 

It's possible the engineer is agreeing to take on the ENTIRE development process and manage the entire development of the project but that would need to be clearly defined in the roles and responsibilities of the development partnership. 

Things will never feel perfect, and the process will always feel a little scary.

My initial investment was directed toward the new Turks & Caicos location, but it's still in the developmental process.

I suspect the ROW did not want to get in an argument with you and just kind of went along with your thought process all the while knowing there is no way they are going to agree to your terms in writing. 

Like anything, the start is the most difficult steps in any process.  

When I first started I purchased them and when it came time to use it the process was a nightmare.

Strong property management and careful tenant placement also play a critical role in success here, so I recommend partnering with a turnkey company or an agent who specializes in these areas to make the process smoother.As for rental demand, homes that sit for extended periods are often the result of issues like pricing, condition, or tenant quality—not necessarily a reflection of the market as a whole.

You might want to read our series about “How to Screen a PMC Better than a Tenant”, since selecting the wrong PMC is usually more harmful than selecting a bad tenant: https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3094/91877-how-to-screen-a-pmc-better-than-a-tenant-part-1-services-and-processes

The screening process is crucial because tenant quality can vary widely, even under the Section 8 program.