I am wondering if anyone would be willing to take time to answer some questions for this course as the assignment is to interview an individual in a field of interest.

This is especially advantageous to individuals who are new to real estate and don't want to completely mess up which has a higher likelihood with the first few deals or those - like myself - who know enough to know they just don't have the time any longer to vet markets, build a team, analyze countless deals, and every other minor step that seems to often be skirted over when folks on here talk about their successes.

Seller concessions - Assuming the appraisal will support a higher purchase price, you can offer more and have them give you seller credits towards the closing costs.Gift funds - a relative, defined as the borrower’s spouse, child, or other dependent, or by any other individual who is related to the borrower by blood, marriage, adoption, or legal guardianship. 

I'm looking for advice/opinions on what an individual's personal finances should look like before investing in real estate. 

What is the harm? 

Account ClosedThere are normally two ways for more than one individual to own property1) Tenants in common2) Entity owns the title and there is paperwork that indicates that you both are owners of the company(LLC, LP, GP, Corp, etc)You need to report income if you are receiving rental income(regardless or how ownership is held). 

It depends on the individual property and the area of the country.

They are not suing the company rather the individual who owns the companies!

There is no harm in reaching out early, but technically there isn't much work to be done on the lenders side until you have a buyer in place.

Yes you get all depreciation write-offs etc as just an individual holder, and note your accountant will likely need to file a Delaware tax return each year for your rental income in Delaware, but this is usually easy and cheap.