It is tough because it feels like a mix but I would say it is a B-/C+ area so I will think about that when doing this.

It seems that every decade or so we hit a patch where financing gets tough and sales stall for a while because people are having trouble processing mortgages. 

Here's the language I use:Consent to Contact References and Perform Credit CheckI authorize [Type Agent Name Here] (“Agent”) to obtain, and to share with [Type Landlord Name Here] (“Landlord”), information about me from my credit sources, current and previous landlords, employers, and personal references, to enable Landlord and Agent to evaluate my rental application.I give permission for the Landlord or its Agent to obtain a consumer report about me for the purpose of this application, to ensure that I continue to meet the terms of the tenancy, for the collection and recovery of any financial obligations relating to my tenancy, or for any other permissible purpose.I authorize Agent to share my completed rental application (along with any supporting materials) with the Landlord.Applicant signature: _________________________________Printed name: ______________________________________Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________Phone Number: _____________________________________Date: ______________________________________________

.- Landlord costs skyrocketing:      - Insurance: +30% (thanks, climate change)     - Utilities: +30%     - Property taxes, materials, maintenance all up     - Even lawn care and cleaning services cost moreThe article argues these costs are being passed to tenants, not just padding profits.

It's a tough ask for software productivity tools when the "spec" (or "problem statement") isn't well defined. 

Way to pay it forward from a guy who taken some tough knocks and knows the game.....I've been doing this too, and I would advise you to choose your mentorees carefully...some people will not do the work and expect you to give them everything.

It sounds like what you're looking for is an equity partner - you will have a tough time finding someone to lend in 2nd position at 100% CLTV. 

Under the IRS rules, a person  qualifies as a real estate professional if: (1) more than one-half of the personal services the taxpayer performs in trades or businesses during the tax year are in real property trades or businesses in which the taxpayer materially participates, AND.....(2) hours spent providing personal services in real property trades or businesses in which the taxpayer materially participates total more than 750 during the tax year.Like @Greg Scott and @Russell Brazil mentioned above, I don't believe that you would qualify as a REPS, but if you are going to try it, make sure you document it very well (i.e. with some kind of proof, like time cards, mileage forms, and/or receipts, etc.) so that just in case you do get audited, you at least have something to provide to the IRS agent. 

Its very tough, if not impossible, to know if you are exiting right before you get to the light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm sure if varies, but I just want a range to help decide what to do.Land is in Pilsen.You are correct the price can definitely range quite a bit depending on the size, finishes, rough materials, location, etc.