All of the down payment funds are in the other spouse's account that just has their name on it.Problem: Down payment "gifts" cannot be used for investment properties, primary residences only.

The point of the article was to introduce a thought experiment to help folks who financially suffer under common misconceptions, as millions of aspiring homeowners are romantic about real estate, and spend more than they budgeted for that bigger house or bigger yard, or a chefs stove that is a total and utter SUNK COST, and then justify it by parroting that "Your home is your biggest investment" expression.

Basically it came down to salt, water, and breast milk, and I don't think anyone would like a gift of breast milk in a bottle :PSo like coming to a party of 50 people or more, I'm going to bring the gift I intended to bring(bottle of wine for example), even if there might be someone allergic to it. 

Maybe a guest gift of hot chocolate, wild rice and smore supplies.

(You can subsidize the rent with yearly tax free gift amount)  You can only do 1031 to another rental property, not the second home for your mom to live for free. 

Unfortunately he hasn’t responded to either of my two contacts yet (1st letter, 2nd Starbucks gift card with business card) but I’ll keep going.

Every person has gifts and limitations.

I was working as a bartender and she had saved every single birthday, christmas, graduation, etc. gift I had ever gotten for this moment.

Friends/family "gifting" you money.

This way your not paying interest and you can get gift cards for lowes and home depot to help support your investment.