Have them all get on the phone with a CPA and Attorney and create a Asset Protection plan and structure.

The only reason they are hesitating is because they are protecting themselves.

A great agent can protect you from mistakes and pitfalls, just like a good lender, appraiser, home inspector, and title company. 

Of course it is better still to simply pay for that expertise and keep control yourself. 

Is there a way you can personally guarantee the mortgage and hold the property in its own LLC for asset protection purposes?

OnlineJobs.ph is one of the best VA portals out there, since their pricing, expertise and English skills are on average the best compared to so many other foreign workers on UpWork, Fiverr etc.. 

However, I am considering taking on a business partner(s) because of access to more money and expertise.  

So my question is how can I protect myself if I do take charge of the apartment in the back.

. (-: I do know from a background in law enforcement that you can't just throw out a charge of harassment--you have to take some legal steps (such as a protective order or restraining order). 

Maybe this is being over cautious however I like to have things in place so if and when something happens my property is protected.