That person will be able to tell you what you can do and following that plan will give you peace of mind about your further investing strategy.

I haven't booked anyone from FF this past year, but I might keep one unit open to keep the conversation open.

But keep in mind if your using money you cant afford to get back then buying action property might not be appropriate for your current endeavors and its better to just buy open market were you can do proper due diligence and know you have a build-able site.

Most sources should tell you if it's open or closed/paid. 

Keep in mind the 6% tax rate for second home/investment properties is based on a taxable value and then a local millage rate. 

You get out there and put deals together with your eyes wide open to avoid as much as you can. 

Do you mind sharing the name of that type of loan/lender that allows you to have the seller carry on a second position?

We had to bring the 1925 house to 2023 code which involved un-installing 26 windows that were already nicely installed (in appearance) in the house, reframing them to 2023 standards (at the time) which also involved strapping the bottom of the wood framing with metal straps (mind you this all after we had already completed the inside renovation).  

I would warn you though as soon as you give an inch, the next month if rent is not paid on time you may have opened up a door of forgiveness that was not intentional.

Since this is my only property I do not mind and with my flexible schedule I am able to spend time doing this.