My first rental was purchased from a co-worker who found out i buy houses. 

A co-worker had a friend add his name to a bank account to show as seasoned funds.

An identical apartment occupied by a traveling salesmen hardly home would mostly likely be allocated the identical amount based on RUBS.I listened for a year to a co-worker whose landlord allocate utilities.

Josh L. is a co-owner and is an invaluable source of information for the region, the process and guidance. 

What If I was to get them to put the property in my name or be a co-owner, in the event that they don't want to sell?

My lender suggested finding a co-signer but had no luck finding the right friend/family member with the right credit or willing to co-sign.

@Sean Walton is a co-organizer of the gathering and hopefully chime in with more information.Warm regards,Mark..

Many buy RE because a co-worker bought.

Based on the information you provide, Landlord may deny your application or may take other adverse actions against you (including, but not limited to, requiring a Co-Signer on the Lease, requiring additional deposits, or raising rent to a higher amount than for another applicant.

Now we have a family member that can give us the money for 20% down and closing but she doesn’t want to be a co signer.