I don't want to do a traditional cash out refinance because the house would no longer cash flow and I don't have the funds to buy him out straightforward.

Make it easy for them to provide their details.Anything less will waste the hard-earned money you’ve spent—even if you’ve selected the best keywords, written the perfect ad copy, and utilized every cost-efficient Google feature.In the world of Google traffic, a first impression can often be the last impression.

Welcome to BiggerPockets communityIt is filled with resources and a plethora of knowledgeI wish you all the best in your real estate journey.Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: https://www.biggerpockets.com/settings/alerts/new

Set up Keyword alerts, since you're in Houston you can set up an alert for "Houston" or "first property" or even "fireman" to be alerted when someone posts on the forums that may be relevant or interesting to you!

It was not a great personality fit, nor a good business relationship.Realtor #3: 4% sales fee - was very straight forward and objective.

Once my zoning variance was granted, I expected getting the building permit would be straightforward.

We scheduled a call and they were honest, straight forward, up front, and professional.

It was pretty straightforward when I had one single family rental but has gotten more complex especially with the multi-family.

They follow a straightforward process that has proven successful throughout history: increase earnings, reduce expenses, save as much as you can, invest as much as you can, and wait patiently. 

If things go sideways, you will have much more than a simple eviction to contend with.Keep the paperwork simple and straightforward:  I suggest you do a lease with an option to buy.