That's great that he travels so much but ask him to provide where he rented and where he slept during that time. 

Thanks,BrettLocal PM here - happy to help identify investment opportunities, provide investment analysis and connect you with contractors, agents, lenders etc etc. kindly let me know and I'll help in any capacity I can.

Just based on the info you provided I would take the loss and move on.

In turn they provide me with a steady flow of off market properties.

For properties in Central Ohio, you can access records through the Franklin County Recorder's Office, which provides a public records search tool to help you look up property details, including any liens.

I am not a CPA and am not providing legal advice.

I wonder if your local MLS provider has a list of MLS_only brokers in their system?

Those who teach and provide information are providing a service. 

A lot of hosts I know use pool fences, safety signs, and provide life jackets to help reduce risk.

It is hard to beat the appreciation, cashflow, tax benefit and the hedge it provides against inflation.