The truth is if your investors have no involvement in the operations, If they just put in money and expect to get a profit, you have created a de facto syndication.2) I see a ton of people who just raise money for the syndication. 

Vet your contractors and hold them accountable.

Real estate is transactional where people are involved so it won't be a black and white answer.The best to do is to find an agent that fits your needs and guide you through the process.

First mortgages involves loss mitigation (occupied 1st) and asset management (vacant 1st).

I personally have no connections with anyone who is involved in this niche and I'm wondering how other people have started their journey.

There are many service companies that will manage seller finance notes including the payments, escrow accounts, and documentation. 

I would be curious if Pricelabs has taken into account the sudden need for temp housing or if it is just on autopilot. 

Whether it's considered an arm's length transaction is debatable, but it's not illegal.Move forward with the sale and ensure full transparency with all involved parties, including your CPA.

That complicates enough I'd consult with an entity/asset protection pro.I don't hold residential assets in LLCs unless partners got involved. 

...and the account is closed.