I did not follow through with traditional financing because 75% of income is derived from a monthly military benefit and my business partner is a travel nurse/ contract worker so her W-2's don't reflect her true income.

Which made me wonder if he is using HOA money to pay for this maintenance worker.

The remediation company put up a plastic barrier to the kitchen and the kitchen had a separate entrance for construction workers.

We had our worker who also owns his own construction business come in and do repairs, invoicing every little thing.

I am not talking about having cash to support the full value of the loan or anything, but certainly a reserve fund that can carry the investment through tough times.

This is a tough situation for everyone involved and you want to be respectful of your tenants. 

Tough spot to be in, but an opportunity to help a fellow human.

The seller drove a real tough bargain during the entire negotiation phase.

I have insurance and worker's comp from him already but not sure about the GC License issue. 

These properties sold during winter which I think played a role... as mentioned before sub 350k is tough to get now so knowing what areas should be priced at and trying to scoop properties below that is a very obvious, but tried and true method to build equity, particularly if you're okay with buying properties that need a facelift.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?