Accept a down payment, security deposit or application fee that are all non refundable?

For commercial properties try Modernvalue software for this, and consult with a local commercial r.e. appraiser - they are more helpful and credible than you would think, and can help with tons of data like market rent etc. for a low price.

Can anybody suggest some good software for tracking the performance of my real estate investments?

Large security deposits required by utilities for commercial accounts

:)In all seriousness, you want to start asking your professional friends (high income earners such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, etc) and your older friends (those who might have retirement funds they aren't yet using), and see who is looking for a better return on the cash they have sitting around.Then pitch your *low-risk* opportunity (explain how it's secured by real estate worth a lot more than what you're borrowing) and see if they're interested.

Buy cash (not recommended), secure financing through a Commercial lender, get seller to carry financing, or buy subject too the existing mortgage.

And they're somewhat state specific because of certain statutes, such as CO detector requirements, lead paint disclosures, maximum time security deposit can be held, etc.

If you are trying to somehow secure capital you are putting into the deal you could mortgage the property where you are the lender and the borrower is the entity who owns the asset.

Agreements with partners and working through potential securities issues9.

Even in untreated lumber, like joists, you may get twisting and lose structural integrity.Electrical connections don't like water, especially salt water, that includes low voltage circuits as well, HVAC controll, security wiring, door bell, cable and phone.....all wiring.