They may have played a role in your credit card denial.  

I have two friends who own rental properties and they are successful with their properties, I read Rich Dad Poor Dad twice along with Rental Property Investing and Power of Habit, I've been told by multiple people apart of the Baby Boomer and Generation X that they wish they invested in Real Estate at my age, I was a Resident Advisor at my University and I enjoyed that role so some of the skills are transferrable, and lastly this is the best time for me to take a risk.

In some states, particularly those with warmer climates and robust population growth, seasonality plays a less significant role.

I reside in Massachusetts and have recently taken on the role of landlord for my parents' house as they have aged.

Immigration plays a big role in this, so it would be hard to predict unless you know what happens with population growth.I think it's still a basic human need, and one that the government can not provide at a reasonable cost.

I also know that they "didn't know about the sale ahead of time", so I have to imagine that played a role in the lien. 

There is a lengthy discussion comparing and contrasting the "broker" and "finder" parties and their role in the transaction in the court case described here: http://law.justia.com/cases/new-york/other-courts/2010/2010-20104.htmlWhile I realize this does not apply directly to the topic at hand (Wisconsin), I and other BP members in other states should find it very informative and educational.

Quote from @Rose Jones: I would consider using a realtor if the property is 20,000 or more and yours meets that benchmark.I have done much bigger deals without a realtor (19k-3m) in various roles. 

I would get clear on not only roles, but expectations.

I'm asking specifically because I am thinking about throwing a treadmill or elliptical machine in the living room if the person wants to exercise a little while they're there.The unit isn't huge (around 1k sq feet) and it will probably look tacky, but I was wondering if other people have found value in providing some simple exercise equipment, even if it seems out of place.Hi Brandon, exercise equipment can be a great differentiator, but I'd suggest a compact setup in a dedicated corner rather than dominating the living room.