However, whatever route you go make sure you hire an independent agent rather than captive so they can shop the entire market for you! 

Main thing for you is: - Have both you and your buddy talk to the same lender and get pre-approved to understand down payment options and what your combined budget would be- Decide how you want title held (joint tenancy or tenants in common) - do a google search on this to see which option is best for you guys- START SHOPPING!

You can search for gift on this forum and   that will give clues

I see this most often, when people go shopping on the national websites chasing rates. 

One closed shop 3 weeks into my program and removed all their online content.

Athas Capital used to be the king of ALRs before COVID, but since they have closed up shop, I've not seen any lender offer very competitive terms on ALRs. 

.- McGowin Park developed a huge retail space in 2015 which consists of: 199,500- square-foot retail shopping center containing a future expansion area, five restaurant "pads" and 4.5 acres of outparcel development, and the west development consists of a 148,000-square-foot anchor store with an associated gas station, an 89,600-square-foot shopping center and 7.41 acres of outparcel area.

Some come a facet, others don't, just shop around.If you DIY the install you'll save more money.

Second example: I purchased a first lien note secured by a very run down shopping center in which the principal balance was $470,000 - I paid $255,000 for the note.  

Someone with a good shop vac that has a long hose can get it cleaned out pretty easily.