Learn how to handle objections.

I don't think is objective from a borrowing standpoint i.e. depreciation which averages around 2-3 k a year per property.

That's fine too, but what is her objection to paying you rent as her form of carrying her own weight?  

Under Texas 24.0053(d) If the tenant objects to the justice court's ruling under Subsection (c) on the portion of the rent to be paid by the tenant during appeal, the tenant shall be required to pay only the portion claimed by the tenant to be owed by the tenant until the issue is tried de novo along with the case on the merits in county court.  

So as we watch the market shift, less disciplined investors being distracted by shinny objects, and reckless imprudent choices developing all around us, I ask one question: Are you keeping your powder dry?

I'm not saying I don't here, but I guess my question or what I'd like input on is how you view the market timing question vs. the honest and objective deal analysis part of it - ie ROI etc. 

It can be done, just take the emotion out of it and rely on verifiable objective analysis. 

And yes, we can play all day with where the "line" is, but it's probably too objective to really discuss.  

Near as I can tell the property is in good condition and I don't expect to find squatters (I do expect to find some folks who have gotten away without paying rent for a while because of the property situation).It's interesting that the "gift" part raises objections. 

While it's exciting to get into RE investing with a partner, you really have to get the emotions out of it and look at it objectively.