Just paying the taxes gives you no legal leg up on owning the property.....that is misinformation.....maybe they are referring to Adberse Possession which wouldn’t apply in this situation typically......state laws are specific.You are going to have to talk to a probate attorney in Your state.  

I tell PotentIal tenants it’s usually quiet unless of coarse a gun goes off In a drIve by or the police are arresting someone with their sirens on .i also tell them it’s just a short walk down down the lItter lIned street to our frIendly liquor store and there’s a charmIng little ma and pa corner store that sells cigarettes ,rolling papers, and lotto tickets - all the essentials.

Not saying you couldn't get 1 million on a personal but commercial it typically is standard to have them higher. 

Just prune dangerous or out of control limbs, keep the grass cut, and edge if the other houses in the neighborhood typically all edge their lawns. 

If it's refundable, then you have to prove damages, whereas nonrefundable essentially expects it. 

Typically, all it takes is reaching out to the lender and having them break it down for you.

You may need a lawyer, NYS is an attorney state and we typically use an attorney to handle title and sometimes escrow.

As for JV, are your familiar with typical terms and expectations of a capital contributor?

Everyone is flipping properties in this area, they would essentially be raising your homes property values one sale at a time. 

It is not typical for an agent to actually measure the property.