So before we draft the agreements and head down to a lawyer, I'd like to run it by experienced folks in this forum.My take is that partner provides the sweat equity, and I provide the real estate; ie, free use of the house as a facility, but ownership and major maintenance remains mine. 

I am not a lawyer but I think I remember my RE class instructor saying it was not okay to pay a fee to someone who does not have an active real estate license.

Before I run my final numbers I'd like to know how much I should be estimating for purchase and closing costs (lawyer fees, commissions fees, deed and title fees, etc).

"[ I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice; that is a laymen's interpretation of the paperwork you may have signed at the closing table, which I have not read, because I didn't do the mortgage and for all I know you got some wonky mortgage with settlement paperwork that didn't have the language in it that I am familiar with. ]

I took a lawyer to represent me but otherwise, what and where should I be looking at before signing the deal?

You would need a license.So I would buy it first on land contract in IL and sell it on a lease and rofr or lease w option.Here is an IL Lawyer's article re: ILCshttp://shearerandagrella.com/index.php/installment...

Hi everyone,We are about to submit an offer for an apartment and wanted to ask if some of you can recommend lawyers and their cost for the process.

Again just my two cents, I'm not a lawyer so don't take this as professional advise.

Pick up a book or two on the subject of land-lording (you can find great books here on BP) and maybe speak to a lawyer.

The primary Team mem bers  typically Attornies/Lawyers, real estate Agents/Brokers, CPA's (Or accountants you trust), Inspectors, Property Managers, General Contractors, and Handymen.