While you're not building a CPA business...you're in a very similar situation and I think his approach is spot on for how to tackle the position you're in.

Other way to tackle it is to LLC, pool money, and hop in as a investor.

These conversion requires good technical understanding how to tackle issue, it really depends on the existing layout.

I've been investing in Columbus for 5 years now and with your investor mindset there surely will be other deals to tackle here

That said, I am drafting an operating agreement which will tackle items such as future sale, major decisions, split of rental income/proceeds, funding of unforeseen costs, etc.

Then we looked at the reno scope to decide if we wanted to tackle a big project if some of our contractors were not available.  

Our primary goal was to creatively tackle the common challenges within the real estate industry, and this endeavor has turned into an incredible learning experience for me.My son led the charge in designing this project, which proved to be a hands-on and intricate process.

Also be honest with them and tell them is not for you to live in is more for investment therefore you must tackle a few things in the property , plus remind her that the negotiation is directly with you so (maybe you can deduct that initial commission they where expecting to pay ) cos either way they were going to pay it.. 

OOS investing comes with challenges so be ready to tackle them.

How to tackle this?