quite claim deed would be quickest and easiest way. 

I thought cutting ourselves equity was the easiest option, as it provides an incentive for us to make the portfolio profitable.

Jay, I don't know if I would consider myself well-capitalized here, but I'll give you some rough numbers: I have around $650k invested in the block (and yes, they all cashflow quite well), and have about $100k of cash to play with (I could probably scrounge around for another $100-200k of my own money, but I'd prefer not to; I'd be open to attracting other investors, although I'm not sure on the legal status there). for reference the 650k is for 8 individual units.James, I definitely agree that buying up the block would be the easiest way to make this happen, but that would take quite a few million dollars more than I have, not to mention that many of the owners are not willing to sell except for significantly over market value.

It appears the first time home buyer can take gift funds for down payments, but must sign agreements certifying that they don't have some side-deal for those gift funds; they must be true gifts.  

Hello,1) Yes, you can start a partnership without the other person having money.2) You structure the deal any way you want.3)That might be the best/easiest way to go.4)I have 2 different partnerships and have rental property solo.  

Personally, I like using leverage for many reasons, one is I can purchase more properties & have tenants pay them off for me thus building more wealth quicker, besides RE is one of the easiest asset classes to leverage, the less cash you tie up the higher the yield as long as you still cash flow, and it's less risky, if the property drops in value & you were forced to sell you'll lose $$.

I feel that is much better then offering gifts or incentives, we are a team.

My income is enough to be approved for the mortgage, so I will be the only signatory on it, while we will both be on the deed.Our plan was for her to "gift" me the funds and apply the fund to the down payment.

I figured it was the easiest way to communicate becuase i didnt trust her to do it.and thank you to all!  

Any solid introductory deal is worth at least $400 in either gift cards, travel, or cash back.