My attorney used a form that closely followed the Realtor form, and covered the key contingencies like inspection, financing, and the seller delivering clean title.Hope that helps,- Tom

That's what even CPAs debate.The answer to this question then influences my main concern: mileage deduction.If I have to drive to a rental for some maintenance (no other stops to keep it simple), can I deduct the mileage, if I have an office in my home, but not an "IRS type qualifying home office", that I actually use for business purposes?

It's not "my" beliefs that are influencing or should influence anything.

Through it all, there are a few key points I've come to believe: everything exists for me as a possibility (and I mean... everything) and if you can dream it, the mind can help you accomplish it.

Clearly this is a scam..don't send any money..this sounds to me like the rental scam where the "owner" claims to be out of country on business and then ask the potential renter to send deposit money and then the out of country owner will fed ex keys.

If we do need to honor the lease by law, is cash for key our best bet?

The roi mentioned might be nice, but isn't likely long term, because the seller is leaving off a couple of key items - maintenance (beyond mowing the lawn), and vacancy.

I asked for keys, the title company didn't have them.

In a short sale if you are missing a few key pieces the whole transaction falls apart or you start over and lose the buyer to frustration with the process.

I think a good CPA that *you* are comfortable chatting with & bouncing ideas off of is a key part of your business, just like a great attorney, or a great plumber.