We normally do not seek judgement due to the expense that is involved, even after you win you have to continue to renew the judgement every year.We put them in collections and have it hit all three credit bureaus.

It looks like most of them have been listed for 2-3 months, so you aren't unique.Another consideration is your distance from the city. 

I read the fine print and found that the 90 day guarantee and how to get the $1,000 invested back involves actually sending him 2 qualifying deals.

How much upfront costs are typically involved in a project before you know if it's a viable project to pursue? 

From day one I treated my involvement in real estate as a real business.This means, I had an advertising budget, a lead generating and follow up process, a back end process and money source and above all an experienced mentor.  

Are they given a JV-co-GP position for fundraising or will they be involved in the management of the property?

Make sure any renovations comply with local regulations and obtain the necessary permits if plumbing changes are involved.

Much like @Rereloluwa Fatunmbi I got involved in Houston, too.

He ignored several attempts and only got involved when we sought outside help but has again become unresponsive. 

your on the right track then.. just compare costs and time involved.. then move forward