The note can be made more marketable by using an RMLO service who can document the file- the seller acts as the underwriter in approving the financing, but they will verify rent and perhaps in this case put together some non-traditional credit sources and income documentation in trying to establish ATP (Ability to Pay)   The seller could potentially sell the note at the closing table (likely around 70% of the Note Value.) 

Need help with adjusted cost basis of this home when converted to rental in 2017 for filing 2017 taxes.With original purchase and subsequent refinances(4 total) there are typical closing costs, such as points, title, recording and other lender fees.I've being doing taxes myself for my personal and other rental properties I own.Here are my questions:1) in addition to title, recording, what other escrow, title or loan related expenses from the original purchase in 2004 can be added to the cost basis adjustment?

Yeah if you look at all the liar loans that were created during the last bubble and selling off the bad loans as mortgaged backed securities .

Most title companies if your just one off buyer wont do the note for you.. they do them for me but we are a top tier client.So you have the note sent to title they prep the closing statement and deed and put your note in the file as well.. when its ready to close the title company is going to contact your lender provide wire instructions and tell them how much they need to wire into close.you going to either go in, or have a mobile notary come to you.. sign notarize the deed of trust ( Notes are generally not notarized or need to be  although does not hurt to do it but like I said not common and does not make them any stronger to notarize them)you sign... your lender wires in the dough  seller signs returns their docs.. and next day or so when all docs are together it closes and you now own it subject to the loan.the title company will then send the Original signed note and copy of HUD etc to your lender.. you get copy of hud.. your the owner lender is the bank. simple done every day.on the West coast we DONT use attornies to close and we do NOT do wet closings I have not been to a closing basically in 25 years.. occasionally if I am around the title company I will go in and sign but NEVER is the buyer and SEller in the same room and NEVER are checks distrusted on the spot like they do back east.For one I would NOT accept a check from a closer attorney or other wise I ONLY accept wires as a seller ...

My questions are: Do I have to give my social security number to get them turned on?

I'd advise pulling credit and checking background even on the tenant you plan to renew - letting them know it is required to have on file for all tenants of your company (even if already present at purchase), including SS# & DL copy. 

Make the initial purchase personally under my name, secure financing under my name, then quitclaim the property to the LLC?

Mortgages are the customary security instruments.

The act wasn't intentional, but should I still approach them about paying some of the bill or taking a portion of the bill from their security deposit?

Be sure you’re getting estoppel letters signed by each tenant indicating their current rent and security deposit along with leases.