My agent is saying that we are unable to split the contract that way (or reduce the purchase price), so I'm trying to figure out options.

Hi Thu - Congrats on your first STR purchase—so exciting!

Did you have an agreement in writing signed by both you and the designer regarding payment schedule and purchases?

@Jason Khoury I purchased my current residence, a duplex, from a local non-profit about 5 years ago.

I purchased the property from the Shelby County Land bank. 

I'd also like to try to purchase with a land trust or my LLC. 

Quote from @Victor Yang: If I gift a house, what amount will go towards the lifetime gift limit, the amount i purchased the house for, or the current FMV?

With this being your first purchase, you may want to consider a property that's not being sold at auction. 

Understand Realtor (Agent) Fees- In Germany, real estate agent (Makler) fees are typically paid by the buyer and can range from 3-7% of the property purchase price, plus 19% VAT.- These fees are due at closing and are part of the overall transaction costs.6.

If you had good credit (670-730 range), you have 20% to make a down payment, and sufficient income to qualify for the home you want to purchase - Would you choose the FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER or CONVENTIONAL purchase option...which would you pick and WHY?