I went to college, not that it is necessary, and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.  

I've done many loans by myself to flippers and simply prefer (emphasize preference here) to stay away from owning RE. 

Always do a math analysis and try to look at the prospective properties before you make an offer or at least have a clause in the sales contract that allows you the time (usually about 15 days) to make a detailed inspection and possibly back out of the deal without a penalty that will hurt you too much.I went to college too (and it is not mandatory) and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.  

I also went to college, not that it is mandatory, and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate while recovering from a medical priblem.  

If they only read your title post, they too may think an LLC has magic tax beans.The idea that tax benefits exist simply by having an LLC is what I was emphasizing.  

I went to college to, not that it is mandatory, and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.

I graduated from college, not that it is mandatory, and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.

I also went to college (not that is mandatory) and I got a business degree that emphasized real estate.Since I was in Texas and planned on staying there I found out that I was qualified to take a test and get a real estate broker license, so I took the test and got the license.  

This is where if you are gonna be a salesman,you need to use your powers of persuasion.Find their pressure points and emphasize you are there to alleviate those pressures.Take control of the negotiations by gently reminding them that you want to buy but can move on to the next deal at anytime.You have to make them worry that if they don't cooperate and comply with your contingencies,you will walk on them.Why are they selling?

Your parents marriage should emphasize the very importance of finding the right partner and and vetting them early on.