Your husband does not qualify for REPS anyway, but you do not need REPS to benefit from the so-called STR loophole.More importantly, STRs typically create large tax losses in the first year only.Most importantly, taxes are never a good reason to choose a poorly performing investment, IMHO.Read this post: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1122635-the-s... 

As I thought, get the purchase agreement that includes a special stipulation saying we'll pay the unpaid taxes.submit to title company and perform searchfund escrow accounttitle co will distribute funds at closing.shooting for a two week turn around or less.

I have a duplex with MTR and LTR and it performs at almost 50% COCROI.

If they were negligent in the performance of their duties, then they owe damages caused as a result.

After 12 months expire I would have them sign "my lease" (which would be very similar terms as original + additional nuggets of terms I've picked up over time, like inspections - current manager performs no periodic inspections).  

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – and they often select the first PMC they call!

If you are looking for a consistent performing STR assets then I would highly recommend Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key area along the AL/FL coastI have helped many recent investors find turnkeys properties as well as vacant lots for them to build STR new construction homes on.

To be exact a performance or surety bond.

The Water Department still asks for the affidavit because they don't consider 'equitable title' ownership unless it's 'legal title'.....so I'm wondering if I can specify timely payments of the water bill in the LC as part of the performance of the contract (or would you recommend I put the water bill in my name on a Land Contract situation too?)

First, we performed a thorough cleanup and made minor repairs, spending $2,500 to enhance the property's appeal.