If anyone does decide to invest in Johnstown, we have a great local landlord association that would be beneficial to plug in to also (Greater Johnstown Landlord Association). 

You can then provide the exact address and schedule viewings based on mutual agreement.Hope this helps!

Both me and my brother are at this stage at the moment, I'm browsing all loans that I can that will seem beneficial between me and him.

What strategies should I employ in these negotiations to ensure the partnership is equitable and beneficial for both parties?

You will hear many horror stories so my two cents is to find that company who's looking to your mutual success & respond to you in a timely manner. 

However, sharing your intentions with your realtor can be beneficial.

What concerns me is any lien that would prevent me from refinancing the property.Thanks,Matt Make sure the mutually agreed contract is compliant with DPBR, some states are very specific regarding flat rate vs T&M contracts.

I would say having family nearby could be beneficial if you think they could be of any assistance.

To get the underwriting based on solely a new appraisal, you'll need a ton of evidence - enough to convince an underwriter or risk officer who gets to make the call purely on internal company policy and not tied to conventional or govt published guidelines.All this being said, if you're already at a 1.0x with the current appraisal for the loan amount you want, going to 1.1x or 1.25x would only be marginally beneficial unless your lender wants 1.25x for some reason. 1.0x is generally enough to fund for most investors at or below 70-75% LTV.

Many seem to be using the retired GC's when looking to bring on a qualified individual; beneficial for both sides.