I would refund the deposit amount in the lease - minus any claim - to the tenant and chalk up the difference to a life lesson.I am glad you circulated Estoppel Certificates to the tenants.  

Also look into more than one way to invest in real estate, roll the money from one to other, I use handyman business to improve skills and fund my flips, rentals, or tax liens/certificates.  

Being new, I obviously have my goals such as finding potential customers (i.e. cash buyers), obtaining referrals for closing agents & realtors, get a feel for the local market, etc...BUT i don't have much to offer in return except for open ears and promises of commitment.  

I'm curious to hear from anyone who has done this or has any insight.I am interested in obtaining a license as a real estate salesperson in the state of Maryland.

Most I know who have obtained funding work with private lenders and/or have taken on a partner. 

Easypeezy.If you do get the property under contract, you must obtain copies of the tenants lease/rental agreement. 

Please email me through Bigger Pockets or [email protected] so that they can obtain more information

However, this would still limit our ability to obtain loans with a newly formed entity. 

Though there is little need to explain to you the benefit obtainable though BP.Well done on taming the student debt.

There are a lot of good people that want to help those that need it, so you came to the right place to obtain knowledge for your Real Estate investing.