Current: Pass-through business taxes based on individual income tax rates and brackets Proposed: Business owners get a 20% deduction for pass-through income; phases out for some businesses starting at $315,000 of income for joint filers

Can’t enlarge the pic, but that looks like just s bad joint muffing/taping job.

In that case, I think it is genuinely to make good capital by investing in seed (see what I did there?)

I believe the title "Save Money on Syndication Fees" is a bit misleading because it sounds to me like you are talking more about a joint venture rather than a syndication.

I am hoping to participate in a couple of joint ventures over the next few years to grow my investment fund.

This is very simple case for the IRS to declare such joint investment to be a "prohibited transaction".If you want to stay out of trouble my recommendation to you - don't do it! 

I am hoping for some clarity. This situation is a bit sticky, so bear with me through the details. (They're about as clear as mud.) I am wondering: Is it possible to put in a cash offer on a house with another person ...

I am not sure if opening a personal joint account is best.

I had a very good feeling about him being a genuinely helpful person but I agree that is always a possibility that it's all an act. 

The ones that do come and help, are genuine and often buy properties and we try and help!