The wording even reads inappropriate... 

particularly when it is being misused or applied inappropriately. 

Would calling them directly be inappropriate or potentially harmful to me?  

Benjamin, while I agree with you that comment Benjamin made was inappropriate (the reason for the original question was clearly explained), what do you do as a result - start to swear and call him 'a**' instead of politely condemning him?

Be diligent in appropriating money each month for maintenance and be sure to utilize a written lease with clear terms.

What they are doing is inappropriate and better tenants can easily be found to replace them. 

via online and/or people who have strategies so creative, that they're confusing to a novice such as myself. there seems to be sooo many ways to conduct deals and most "teachers" can only "teach" the ONE way that worked for THEM, probably after much trial & error. issue 3: i'm not sure i'm tackling my priorities in appropriate order. i dont want to waste time. i'm eager to acquire my first property and complete my first deal.last issue (for now): in my world - family, friends, neighbors, etc - know nothing about investing. get a job & work until retirement is the name of the game. my folk seem to be "silently negative" about the idea. they mean well but have been exposed to so many scams, anything other than a secure paycheck is ludacris to them.my immediate goals (if i even know what they should be at this point) are to find an experienced investor(s) in the southeastern PA region to help me assess my plan of action. also, i believe i am at the point where i am ready to consult with an attorney about the initial contracts and applicable laws.thanks to any and all who can provide me any guidance at this point...ps - lemme know if this post is too long for these forums.

I am not in the habit of giving out my tax return info, so what should I omit in order to ensure that my information is not used inappropriately.

I assume of-course, that you're looking at flips, not buy-and-holds, which would normally be an inappropriate use of hard money.Presenting to your mom for a loan maybe different, but I know no experienced HML's that want a fancy presentation.

I was just afraid that may be inappropriate since it is her work e-mail.