My initial thought as a remote investor in this area is: Trust local high-reputation companies -be it turnkey or others-, to get my feet wet and move from there.

The deal is structured as followsLand: 19.5 acresPrice: $200,000Buyer will put $100,000 down of their own moneySeller Finance: $100,000 in second lien positionInterest Rate: 5%Term: 24 months (I might be able to negotiate this down to 18 months)Received Monthly: $4,387An Escrow would be set up at the buyers expense to manage the loan.The developer is one of the more prominent names in my area and appears to have a good reputation but I don't know enough about land development to feel comfortable with the risk of being the second position lender.

Hi Kyle, The Lawrence area has had an influx of crime over the past years, giving it a rather bad reputation.  

If you still decide to rent out your home, seek out a reputable property manager in your area and budget for the expense. 

I ended up using a local bank who was more reputable.

thye hope to refi I would not do this unless your pre approved for your refi by a reputable lender. you could find your self stuckand keep in mind you run up massive credit card debt like this and your fico goes into the toilet and now you cant refi because your fico to low !!

With the agent, does the agent have a strong reputation for closing.

I also hope you are countersuing as well for breach of contract, and damage to your reputation.

But its because of the established relationships and reputation. 

I found those leads from property manages that I created relationships with and built a reputation of "this owner will make sure repairs are done right the first time".