In light of this, I have been exploring the possibility of pursuing creative finance options, specifically seller finance deals, as a potential means to achieve my goals.

My interests lie in all areas of real estate, and I am eager to explore potential opportunities and gain insights into effective strategies.

Here are a few avenues folks often explore in times like this:You are already on this path - Owner Financing: It's great that the seller is willing to finance a portion of the deal.

Have you explored any of these options yet?

Flipping and rental properties are great areas to explore.

Also, explore creative financing options that might balance your partner’s limited credit/cash flow without putting all the risk on you.If you're attorney can't clearly articulate this, maybe it's time to find a new one.

It’s worth reaching out to your local tax office to explore options.

And feel you'll have more options / strategies to explore with a tri or quad plex in the long range.

Starting with remote investing, like in Charlotte, can be an option, but it might be worth exploring local opportunities in Orange County too.

A Title Company can distribute the proceeds based on the agreement, and consulting a CPA will help calculate tax liabilities and explore strategies like a 1031 exchange to minimize taxes.