The IRS computers are not doing this.

I've started looking at Columbus because my business partners have found success doing Mid Term Rentals there and the returns are solid.

Well, the reasons given generally fall into two categories - either tax benefits through an “installment” sale or obtaining an interest rate on their capital greater than what banks are paying.In my 45+ years doing real estate deals, I’ve found maybe once that the tax argument was considered by a seller; further the “greater than bank rate” argument is completely irrelevant because - the proceeds of a property sale were never going into a bank account, at least not most of the proceeds.

They have rehabbed and sold thousands of properties...I think they do a good job of handling the rehab plus they put in "market rate" tenants. 

My feeling of using Pref Equity is that you'd better know what you're doing and confident that you can deliver.

First, the best thing you can do is improve your screening process.

Why do we all say that, because it simply was. 

Do you have pictures of the interior of the property? 

or do I need to empty it?

At minimum, look at the assessor's site on the lot lines but ideally, have it surveyed so you know what you will own (esp if you are going to build a fence or structure).Tons of lessons, always learning, looking forward to reading what others want to share here!