They're not building any investing muscles and learning how to find/buy/create opportunities.

After seasoning, it seems like the gift fund wouldn't necessarily have to be declared as a gift.Thanks!

Regarding tax issues , there is an agreement between France and US that avoid double taxation , apparently you just pay taxes in the US (you declare them in France but you don't pay anything.

Then they have to warm up their muscles, adjust to the cold water, figure out which way to swim, and get back into the game.

Talk to your insurance, but I'd recommend (besides building coverage):1) Higher liability shield, it's cheap2) Have tenants get contents insurance and give you a declaration stating coverage (yes, I know they can cancel the next day)3) Do NOT hold your property personally.  

I also let the Tenant know that if they don't keep up on rent or remove the items, then the property will be declared abandoned and everything will be disposed of according to the law.

Document everything and report the incidents to the police and housing authority so you have the muscle to stop her, get her out of your life/property, get her the help she needs, and save her children from living in chaos.Thanks for posting this issue.

You wouldn't owe taxes, but would use that declared fair market value as your basis for depreciation. 

If you have an agent, they will be paid by the seller, unless this is a separate agreement which will be declared so everyone is aware of it.

Why declare it worthless?