Once I get the homeowner to sign the assignment,  do you want to be the first option to review the numbers and possibly buy ?

“Does anyone know of a website or resource that reviews Real Estate Syndication sponsors or offerings?

Each note is reviewed individually and most note buyers will provide quotes once the transaction has closed, recorded, and the first payment made. 

With your costs being less you can invest more into the property to build reviews and get bookings. 

Instead of debates and personal opinion, look for proof https://www.ladbs.org/docs/default-source/forms/plan-check-2017/single-family-dwelling-duplex-plan-review-list.pdf under G (Interior Env) which defines the minimum requirement of a habitable room (aka bedroom or bathroom).

As everybody else stated review your basic protection with P&C and umbrella coverage and run your rentals like a business, easier said than done.   

If you're going to do it alone, make sure you your due diligence: estoppels, inspection, review, consult with a local attorney familiar with the local regulations, etc. and good luck.

It would be good to talk to a lender to make a game plan and review your financials. 

Scammers do exist, and it’s smart to verify a lender’s legitimacy before moving forward.Check Reviews and References: Look for reviews on trusted platforms like BiggerPockets or Google.

There is some info here: https://yieldtalk.com/iintoo-review/.