Having the right team in place is key.All management companies are not created equal.

I would recommend calling a few construction/ fence/ light companies to get some ball parks.

Usually insurance companies only cover loss if the property is uninhabitable.

Can you recommend any local property management companies that specialize in student housing?

I had 4 companies come out but only say 3 bc one could not prove insurance and work history that's why I say 3.

So my question is: if I wanted to save on the recording costs, keep the deed for my records, proactively pay taxes as they're billed (would coordinate with the company I buy the CFD from), then work with the borrower to get the deed recorded under their name once they've paid off the contract--am I putting myself at risk? 

Most companies don't let you pay your mortgage with a credit card, but with third party services like Plastiq you can pay just about any bill including a mortgage for a 2.85% surcharge. 

But instead, a few people with their agenda pass policies that stand in the way.

We've done this and it's been a great way to build our team.https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-companies

I work in Business Development for a Property Management company over Greater Houston only and am first contact for Owners/Investors looking for management...