Based on my knowledge of real estate and irrevocable trusts (not a whole lot but enough) it doesn't sound like there was anything done illegally.

A real estate developer rented out my family’s backyard and put up scaffolding to build a building complex in Queens, New York.The developer and my family signed a contract allowing them to use the backyard.

Happy to connect and assist you in your real estate investing journey.Happy to connect if you are interested to expand your portfolio@Albert Bui @Carlos Valencia

I'm new to real estate investing and just wanted to get some advice, input, and constructive criticism on using a HELOC as a down payment to purchase my first investment property.

This includes rental income, which is typically taxed at a flat rate of 30% unless you elect to treat the income as "effectively connected" to a U.S. trade or business, which allows for graduated tax rates and deductions. 

@Paul DentingerRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

The real estate market in my area is now stagnant with a surplus of inventory.  

I want somebody to fund up to a certain amount, $100-$200mil preferably, yet want to offer equity on acquisitions picked up after that amount is met and future real estate relate businesses, such as construction and staying companies as well.  

I am on my very first steps of getting the ball rolling in real estate investing and have read/am reading many of the BP books.

How about a list of LEGIT buyers one has worked with, for years, done business with, buyers who've actually acted vs looked.