If after you own a property he gets involved that will be a bonus.

Leasing agent doesn't need to be involved with the move in condition checklist

When we actually look at the prices of Real Estate, that's not what we actually have seen.While I don't think one should take their personal experiences into account for fear of extrapolating a biased opinion, I see this scenario done ALL the time here on BP, especially when I see postings involving places like NYC where people are saying I wouldn't invest here because my personal experience shows that it is un-affordable.YES... that is true... it is un-affordable.... when you do it ALONE, by yourself.

But i'd be willing to bet that you'll miss something along the way that will either cost you money, give the seller a leg-up on negotiations, or cost you the deal.   

I would imagine that we would need to get an attorney of some sort involved, but what type, real estate? 

My policy is not to get involved in these disputes.

I am from Detroit, MI eager to get involved in investing  buy & hold real estate for single family & small multi unit (2-4) properties.

If this is your first deal, I would get an agent involved.

My ability to painstakingly investigate our potential tenants, really get into the details of involved criminal and credit histories, has been very useful for us as part of our business plan.

If they are willing to pay back rent at all you are lucky, getting them to sign some sort of promissory note would probably be your best bet, but talk to a lawyer.