I contacted the owner and at first he insisted it wasn’t his responsibility but since I had notified him and we are neighbors, he eventually agreed to pay half of the tree removal cost, no insurance was involved.

I asked that they take care of most of these items, which the team agreed to, but with there now being a tenant renting out the property (this wasn't the case at the time of the inspection), my guess is that it's going to take some time for these things to be addressed.

I agree with Brian although many portfolio lenders would lend quickly if you have 20-25% to put down. 

However, we do change the locks with each new tenant, that way they are the only ones with the key accept management.As for changing the lock on a room you want to rent, you would have to discuss it with the landlord and have then agree.

While I agree with that sentiment, neither my friend nor me are local to the vacant land parcel.

Buying physical assets is unlikely to lose principal unless you're over leveraged...To me, the control is more valuable with direct investments, passive investments are for later in my career.I agree that I'd rather have control. 

I agree, talk with local banks about it. 

@Mark Fries That is beside the point, but I agree.

(Scenario): I find a seller, he agrees to sell his house to me at a good price, I plan to assign the contract to an end buyer.

All four of us agreed upon him only being paid 30% of whatever profit is received.