Any insights or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!

I'm also starting off my own personal investment property journey with my husband. 

Hi Aaron,It's always challenging when companies go through transitions like this, especially when it involves something as personal and critical as managing retirement accounts.

It sounds like this is their personal residence.

I don't personally care about checks anymore so that wasn't an important feature for me. 

If you wanted to fund a portion of the down payment would you suggest a hard money lender, personal loan, etc.?

Fast forward 2 years his landlord mentioned in passing he might sell the property; I was the first person on his mind.

We also require that we be added to the contractor's insurance as Additionally Insured, so we're covered if they cause damage or liability issue.3) If the property is occupied:- One of our people MUST accompany their person (and we charge for this). --- We were sued many years ago, along with the owner, because tenant claimed owner's contractor sexually assaulted them!

what kind of investment was/is this  a little more detail may protect others if you think this person is a financial predator.  

The drawback is you need to build trust and relationships upfront.Both have their place, but private money tends to offer more flexibility, while hard money is more structured and accessible if you lack personal connections.