Wow that is the first thing I have seen you write that I disagree with and I couldn't disagree more strongly.

You could literally write up your own deed restriction to a property you own and then go down and record it; regardless of whether that deed restriction is legal or enforceable.Hell, in some areas, older homes still have deed restrictions limiting the sale of properties to non-negros only.

I write about it all the time on my blog at www.TheRedPillInvestor.com! 

But we shook hands and agreed on a very modest non-refundable deposit and agreed to put everything in writing Monday or Tuesday.

Buying at the top you only typically get principal pay down and some tax write offs.

I've read a few books and listen to the BiggerPockets podcast frequently trying to learn what I can.I have begun writing up a goal, plan and putting together spreadsheets using a lot of information from The ABC's of Real Estate Investing.

Some counties web sites are more user friendly than others you may have to look at a tax parcel map and search by the parcel in the search function.  

This caused problems because during the prequalifying process the lender said our loan amount should be fine, but 2 weeks before closing she informed us that it was a high cost loan and they could not write it for 20% down.

I have a couple of questions:What is the job and function of a Title Company?

Under Chapter 13, if a wage earners income has a significant change, wins Lotto (LOL)  creditors may file a motion to recover debts on a different schedule, so they may not be out of the woods until debts are paid.If a bankruptcy has not been discharged, dealing in real estate with a debtor, get permission from the debtor's attorney in writing or better yet, consent from the Trustee.