How did you know it was a deal (what signs sent up red flags on the current property manager, what did you look for)? 

Its a lot of politics involved with becoming a commercial investor to be reckoned with in any big city and there are many big players in town already each dominating particular sections of the city.  

I was feeling some red flags with wanting to draw things up without my input.

Too much red tape and too many hoops to jump through.

That raises a red flag , unless he has a relative or won the lottery , I'd pass and hire a realtor to assist me. 

If there are red flags on your proof of funds and the other agents or sellers don't know who you are, then even though your bid may be slightly higher or very similar they may take the perceived "lower risk" option. 

I've yet to need to do this so the red flags are up.  

." - I found this surprising as well, but my lawyer said there were no red flags.Also regarding the contract:"The general Real Estate taxes95 shall be prorated as of the date of Closing based on \CSSgo of the most recent ascertainable full year tax bill.

You could potentially partner with someone using that skill as part of your contribution towards the project.BTW if you're interested, we're having a meeting in Red Bank on Thursday for local investors (Monmouth County).

Get connected your local REIA and see who the real players are.