He is older and does not have a mortgage and there is a lot of deferred maintenance on the property.

Appraisals are backed up and on the right timeline of investor deals, every day counts when you need toBeef up the appraised ARV to get a healthier LTV.Hope this helps!

Therefore you have to rely on contract, if its a new build, make sure its in the Purchase Agreement.Why?

With 400K my initial thought is doing a BRRR/Flip that is close enough for you to be hands on.

If she's renting the lot, shouldn't the owner of the lot be responsible for seer line repairs?

LOL   That is exactly what I would expect from the Detroit City Government.If you go there, they are likely going to say you first need a license from a different office on the other side of town and when you drive there, they will say you need an appointment with them, but they only have appointments the third Thursday of each month.  

I was debating if I should partner with a friend or family member who is willing to work on a property together. ill be sure to make sure things are done legally and fairly so no one get short sighted and things don't get messy.

Can you set up an account and post a rental directly on Zillow if you are not a realtor? 

Just closed on my first loan with them.

Hello @Bethany S Labrinos congrats on getting started on your real estate journey.