Locate a notary on http://www.123notary.com close to where the seller lives and they arrange to meet at the seller's home, office or nearby restaurant.  

This can be arranged by phone or going to the appraisal district in person.At your protest appointment, your objective should be to get the tax assessed value lowered to the purchase price of the property.

In ten years, San Pedro will resemble what Long Beach is now.Best,Jon 

So that alone very much limits the services an unlicensed arbitrager can offer an owner and lowers the value that they can bring to the arrangement, while staying within the law at least.

Would I want to arrange to do the rehab work before we close so the property appraises at the ARV value?

I would definitely stick with family though… i don’t think I would partner with someone who is not a family member given your lack of true legal status, and I would definitely still put your arrangement in writing and have your parents involved / fully informed so they can help protect your interests. 

Matthew - I arranged financing for five Dollar General properties last year with another closing next month. 

It is an odd arrangement for the construction company to be doing the leasing versus the tenants.

You and your group will have to arrange ahead of time what their contributions will be and sign a contract.

Have your VA post new info, blogs, tweets, Facebook posts, etc. to various social media outlets.Ask the VA to research upcoming real estate club meetings or seminars, register you, calendar the dates and arrange travel if needed.