Short of coming here and meeting face to face with them and come to a couple local REIA events to discuss, for those who are remote I would suggest getting into some of the NE Ohio REIA facebook groups to get some advice from locals.   

There is always a transition period where selling owner stays on and over time new owner transitions into full control.

well once pandora's box has been opened like this it becomes out of investors control.

Here are a couple of ways you could structure the deal:Lease Option with Seller Financing: You could lease the property with an option to buy later, allowing you to rehab it while giving the sellers time to find a 1031 replacement property.Seller Financing with Deferred Payment: Structure the seller financing with no immediate payments, allowing you to refinance once the property is appraised, and the sellers can complete the 1031 exchange when ready.Escrow Holdback: Transfer the deed into an escrow account, giving you control without immediate transfer, so the sellers can take their time with the 1031.Third-Party Facilitation: Use a qualified intermediary to hold funds and facilitate the 1031 exchange while you refinance.These options allow flexibility for both you and the sellers.

The lessons you learned the hard way in 2008 will be invaluable now, and it’s great that you’re aiming to stay small-scale and within your comfort zone of Sacramento, which gives you an advantage of knowledge in that market.Given your experience, I'd say start by focusing on three key areas to build confidence and minimize risks:Budget Control: Over-renovating was one of the big mistakes you mentioned.

Like I said I do this but for much bigger deals and for my existing clients that are then using me to fund their deals.. and I have total control of the transaction.. these folks are going to learn the hard way. what happens when the deal does not close and the seller wont sign the release ???? 

See what other controls they offer.  

This implies residential units can be built at lower costs and provide better return. 11) adding an ADU to SFH can make the SFH fall under rent control.

Handling Unforseen DelaysA clause should address unexpected events beyond human control, including weather-related delays, natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, or unforeseen structural issues.

He is knowledgeable but he has no control over the GP.