For future deals, only pay security deposit, inspection, appraisal, and engineer cost up front. 

See what contracts he/she uses in order to secure deals.

What is the security the lender has on these deals? 

For example, maybe tenant couldn't pay rent one month and landlord agreed to use security deposit for rent.

And stepping outside that box is a risky thing these days.So you'll need to watch out for that as well as the extra level of protections necessary to secure the property for you and either provide a profit incentive to the unrelated party or protect them from a taxable event.

If you are under value you should NOT reduce your rent.Good tenants are typically good pet owners.In our state we can accept a pet deposit (which I make refundable) and we can charge pet rent.I would keep the rent the same, lock them in for another year and offer them a pet addendum with an additional security deposit (100% refundable) and some pet rent.

Are you going to send your super genius and intelligent bot out to yet another central repository secured database that contains and updates mortgage position?

Purchase price: 280,000ARV based on comps and realtor’s assessment: 430-450,000Work needed: new floors throughout, update kitchen, update bathrooms, paint, repair plumbing, new roof, furnace, water heater, add 2 bedrooms and 1 bath in the basement, secure deck.This is my first deal and I’m somewhat overwhelmed so ideas/advice/feedback are welcome.

The best thing to do is speak with a securities attorney and let the guide you and help you decide the proper structures.

If I look to get a loan from private lender how can I screen him to check if he is doing it legally❓And how to secure myself against loosing any upfront fees if this become a scam❓ By putting it on escrow❓Any advise😎✔️❓