There can be a gift but then you have gift tax exposure depending on FMV of the interest. 

Listen to them all.They will give you exposure to the different facets of real estate investing.

If you face limited personal exposure and only own a small rental, people don't much incentive to sue you.

Actual details of financing beyond that point I leave up to the individual and finding the correct lender, I simply build strategies that give people the greatest number of opportunities.I always work with individuals to (1) measure their personal assets (personal exposure), (2) look at their current investments and (3) define their future goals.

Furnishings don’t add too much of a premium and in my experience, corporate rentals are seeking a 1 bedroom so the 2nd bedroom would just be a bonus.

Obviously don't bet on appreciation, be sure the cashflow is strong, but the appreciation is a great bonus!

The first pillar is a good insurance policy as that cover the majority of your exposure.

Would you say that partnering with real estate professionals was an added bonus, since they had a vested interest in seeing it sold?

The first pillar is a good insurance policy as that cover the majority of your exposure.

Try craigslist, depending on the price of the rental, craigslist might be a better place, plus you get more exposure which is always good.