So, let me summarize for anyone viewing this later (some of this is from the above notes and some of this is from discussions with my tax advisor):  (1) It is best to get a contract when using a service provider; worst case, get a quote that include TAX ID, business name and business address (2) Always get a W9 when using a service provider; my advisor told me that you can probably get away without obtaining a W9 from a national provider like Home Depot, Sears Home, etc, but technically the IRS expects you to get the W9; the burden of proof lies with you to prove you did not need to send a 1099, so in the case of Home Depot, etc, it is highly unlikely the IRS would fine you for not sending a 1099.(3) Using the TAX ID and business name provided on the W9 or quote, perform "TIN Verification" to verify that the business name matches the Tax ID; this can be done for $1 using a web site called www.1099online.com - or use any service you like to do this(4) There is no need to issue a 1099 to a corporation or LLC;  You are allowed to send 1099s to corps and LLCs, but those organizations are allowed to toss them out(5) Whenever more than $600 is paid to a sole proprietor (i.e. a company that is not a corp or LLC) then the IRS requires that you issue a 1099 to that sole proprietor.  

It's a web site.

Final analysis is what your willing to gamble.

I'm currently searching the web for duplexes in the San Marcos or Tyler, TX area (that's where my family is located).

I don't like to gamble, especially with the high stakes of an apartment or house.Here's a plan you could use, it was in our last email blast: Interesting meeting last Friday (Movers and Shakers) with some new faces.

Welcome Gary, I remember that webinar and realized I was in the 80%, I am dusting off the webs on my plans and putting plan to action.

No personal pictures on my business cards, web sites or anywhere else.  

The standard forms (promissory note and deed of trust) are on the real estate commission web site.  

I could be wrong on this, but with almost all phones having web access these days, even if they don't have a computer at home, they may have access on their phone, or have access to a computer at work or at the library.

(writ of possession) Its a risky gamble!