In regards to your concerns, you should put together an MOU regarding the terms of your agreement with performance clauses protecting both parties, and eventually lead to a JV agreement.There are several other methods to protect yourself as well as the owner/seller, however, too lengthy to write about.Don't be too greedy, otherwise it will limit your relationships and longevity. 

Seemed like every job was outsourced to a third party and information was never relayed correctly.

In Austin, it's very difficult to capture any additional income from vacation rentals using a third party property manager.

It not only protects all the parties, it allows a wouldbe seller to get Full Price, if not more, while some else covers and is responsible for the payments and property.Regardless of the value of the property or what is owed on it, the THTTransfer™ allows someone else to enjoy the benefits of home ownership without the need for a Down Payment or the need to Bank Qualify for a Mortgage.

Do a drive during the day to see what they look like in daylight, and do a driveby at 8pm on a Friday night - because that's when the drug parties are in full flow.

Good morning @David Bruce,Texas law does allow for an agent to act as an intermediary between the buyer and seller, however, they must obtain written consent from both parties. 

Another possibility might be adding additional sources of income - renting out the common space/room in the office if you have one, to the tenants for birthday parties etc, vending machines, coin operated laundry, pet fees, pet non refundable pet deposits.  

I would think a site like that would be ideal for all parties involved in real estate investing.

That last part is just priceless!

@Nicolas Vinot  Welcome to the party!