Understanding exactly who is the decision maker for property is not as simple as looking through the assessor records.

There are other cheaper alternatives - for example, with datatree you can get down to 10 cents a record."

Assets identified in this study include:Standard windows and doorsInterior ceilings and wallsBasic plumbing and electrical systemsBuilding structural elements and roofingBasic HVAC componentsWater heatersFire protectionThis engineering-based cost segregation study included the following methodology:Physical Inspection through a site visitDocumentation review including architectural plans, accounting records and construction documentsA cost analysis which utilizes engineering principles in order to allocate costs to their applicable asset classificationsCalculation of the depreciation schedule using MACRSAs a reminder, bonus depreciation started to phase out in 2023.

How to Structure the Deal to Protect Your $20KIf you’re willing to cover the $20K arrears, here’s how to protect yourself:Option 1: Secure Your Funds with a Lien or Escrow AgreementUse an escrow account: Deposit the $20K into escrow with clear terms—if the assumption is denied, the funds return to you.Record a promissory note & lien: If the deal falls through, this would give you a legal claim against the property to recover your funds.Option 2: Sub-To + Wrap While You AssumeSubject-to deal: Take over the existing loan payments before assumption approval, securing control.Escrowed deed transfer: The seller signs the deed into escrow only to be recorded after assumption approval, ensuring they can’t back out.Lease option fallback: If the assumption is denied, consider a lease option agreement until another solution is found.Option 3: Negotiate a Seller Financing HybridAsk the seller to carry a small second note for the $60K equity gap at favorable terms.Use your $20K as a down payment, structured as a secured loan against the property.3.

Seller should record their lien against the property, you both should have an attorney review to make sure all interests are property documented and protected, and i think everyone is in a good place. as far as evicting tenants... this is up to what you and the seller can negotiate. i would still be putting on the same contingencies - appraisal, inspection... know what you're buying. don't get blinded by the seller-finance piece. 

I started to notice some issues early on when I tried to get some new tenants screened and signed up. 

I had previously posted the property for rent, showed it and screened the tenants.  

U dont hear much about it .. its a niche and anyone who has taken back a seller carry back note usually gets a few direct mail peices offering to buy your note.. thats all it takes  its public record make contact offer to buy .. etc. 

You can purchase them through a local dealer that has a good track record in the community.At this time our cleaners take care of the hot tub, but I will say if you have a certified hot tub company that can come weekly, I would definitely go that route!

If you expand your rental business in the future, an LLC may be worth considering, but for now, keeping good records and securing appropriate insurance should provide adequate protectionThis post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.