In my opinion, you want something that will protect you, but is also understandable for everyone signing.Keep in mind that at the end of the day, here in Illinois, the state is generally contractor-friendly in the court of law, so making sure you document everything clearly with payment will protect you against any potential mechanics liens.We have had several projects that did not go perfectly here in Chicago because we overpromised and didn't keep tight enough documentation. 

I've made hundreds of friends and sourced more clients than you can imagine from doing one thing - adding value in the forums.I never once said I was an agent or where to find me.

An investor-friendly lender will help you devise a plan for savings and debt paydown.I'd also begin looking into which areas you'd like to invest in as well as strategies to utilize (i.e. househacking). 

My best friend from growing up and I are back home (Boston area) from college and want to save up to buy a duplex together and rent out the other side.

The party seems to have been over about 2-3 years ago now.Might try outside of Dallas now to one of the cities that might be more friendly and accommodating.

Remind them that sound does travel between the units, so if they are on a late night phone call with their friends, to perhaps not sit in the room directly under the upstairs bedrooms.

I had a old house (1940s construction) that the buyer brought in a friend who was "a structural engineer".

Then tried to do a BRRRR by asking private lenders (investor friend and my sister).

I’m frustrated and getting mixed suggestions from family/friends who think they are experts with no skin in the game.

One of my friends is also thinking about that but what I am concerning is how about the vacancy rate for the STR and MTR?