Some personal favorites: Start with Why by Simon Sinek, Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, Talking to Strangers by Malcom Gladwell.

I am trying to learn as much as possible about coming up with offers that allow everyone involved to walk away with a win, as I get closer to closing my first deal. 

Best bet is to find that for any area you are looking into to get confirmed numbers.

(frankly to me it sounds like the deal didn't fall through,  she is hedging her bets)

I believe that the best bet with both strategies is value add real estate.

That narrows it down I bet!   

Early to Middle will be your best bet.

As J Scott stated, the "lender" typically is not on title, the other entity with brains/brawn would hold title, you would hold the deed of trust and promissory note (plus personal guarantee rider from both individuals) against the property.Another structure option would be for you to also join in on title as a partner for an equity share in the deal and that can be structured in any format you all deem a win/win/win.

I'd be willing to bet they coded in an override or factory reset into the control panel anticipating codes would be forgotten or it becomes locked.

A win for the little guy!