You can keep renting and saving but that doesn't give you control of that living situation and money that is not working is losing value. 

Cash flow has been really nice but we do have some maintenance/CapEx expenses like all homes have: thus far $5000 for a new condenser, $1000 for a new fridge, and $2000 for pest control. 

He shouldn't care if you are getting bank financing or paying in full with cash.It's normal to do a final inspection the day of closing to be sure all work orders have been completed and nothing has changed unexpectedly.The seller does not control the buyer's agent commission unless the seller is going to pay that commission.The emd should be held by an escrow company or attorney, not by some "company". 

You say it’s a rent controlled area so are there any limits on reasons you can give notice?

But I assume the best syndications are the ones that aren't advertised and that you don't know about...I plan to stick to individual properties (high control, low liquidity) and REITs (low control, high liquidity). 

The key difference for me between REI and BTC is I have no control over the investment in BTC like I would in RE.

These tools help ensure deadlines are met, budgets are controlled, and teams are coordinated.

If you wish to buy rentals using your retirement funds you simply need a self-directed IRA (or Checkbook IRA if you wish to have more control). 

While some property management companies may prefer to control the listing for operational convenience, it’s crucial that you, as the owner, retain ownership to safeguard your reviews, booking history, and overall control of the property.

The original post mentioned Passaic County - but rent control will vary per municipality.