Yes, even if the seller finances the real estate deal, that does not prevent you from taking advantage of the tax benefits associated with owning rental property.

You must document the use of the money to prevent a claim that you made a consumer-purpose loan.

My goal is to start moving to smartlocks to prevent the constant switch outs. 

However, if you’re committed to a specific suburban area, working closely with a local agent who knows the market well could be invaluable.Working with an Agent: Starting with a knowledgeable agent in your chosen market can definitely help streamline your efforts and prevent that analysis paralysis.

I find myself getting too attached to the cash flow numbers that it has prevented me from taking action.

Regular inspections and preventative work can save you from costly repairs.

Acting as a messenger, the agent may be in a better position to negotiate a discount without ruffling the homeowner's feathers.A real estate agent can also play the “bad guy” in a transaction, preventing the bad blood between a buyer and seller that can kill a deal.

The intention is to prevent money laundering and funding terrorists. 

The belief that the market is too small could be preventing investment in the very infrastructure that could help it grow.

I send tenants to collections because I get the comfort of knowing it sits on their credit report for many years and prevents them from getting loans or cheating another landlord.