While the IRS does not mandate a physical site visit, the IRS cost segregation audit technique guide (ATG) does suggest conducting “field inspections.”It’s important to note that the ATG is not an official IRS document.It serves as a guide and cannot be used, cited, or relied upon as an authoritative source.However, the recommendations in the ATG are worth considering.According to the guide: “A field inspection is recommended to document the physical details of the building, type of construction, materials used for construction, the assets contained in the building, the size and types of building systems, and any land improvements that were included in the purchase of the property and the condition of that property at the time of purchase.”So while the IRS does not require a site visit for cost segregation studies, following the guidance from the cost segregation audit technique guide can be beneficial.

Do they actually deliver on what they promise as far as providing their members deals, and guiding them through the buying and rehab process?

Start by reading the Ultimate Real Estate Investing Guide: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides/ultimate-real-estate-investing-guide/introduction2.

Literally everything one should, or shouldn't be, do, know, act, will all be correctly guided from those 3 words. 

All of those factors will guide you on doing a buy down.

But even with that, he needs someone to guide him or JV with him who isn't going to take advantage of his youth and inexperience.  

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..

Here’s a quick guide to your options:1.

Your accountant will guide you through.

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).