What is strange is I found a review of another entity of theirs where someone said they just kept ghosting and then eventually places some sort of strange lien on the property.

They also could provide a written agreement of some sorts as well.Honestly I would be more concerned with the first than the second

Google took about 1.7 seconds to sort this out.... 

Only way your going to pull that off is with a partner or with private money that YOU line up (not a mortgage broker).I have bought houses with the vendor carrying back all of their equity - so it is possible, but I was working with motivated vendors (key word here), and without an agent getting in the way.

Motivate the tenant to pay or move out.

I recommend people enter RE at this time only if it is a passion and they are extremely motivated and hard working.  

The tenant was every bit as much in on the side deal as Kurt, and Kurt still had to credit every penny.Enforcement types of all sorts tend to go easier on the cooperating/complaining party.  

Use some sort of app to record and track tenant communications.

If you call your insurance company, they should be able to sort it out and go after her insurance (assuming she has any).

As a mother, wife, IT professional, and future investor, you've got a lot on your plate, but your passion for real estate will serve you well.Taking ActionListening to the BiggerPockets podcast is a fantastic way to boost your knowledge and motivation.