That is not the case everywhere, and not the case where I live in DC where almost no agents are involved with rentals.It is pretty common for agents in Boston to receive fees from both the landlords and the tenants.

It started with a $6,000 mistake...Late Saturday, enjoying one of my much needed nights out, I received a text from one of my tenants stating that the A/C unit was just blown out..I wasn't concerned except that it was a 2am text & call and that the next day was Sunday (weekend service repair calls are always more expensive).As summer approaches, I knew that this was a situation that needed my immediate attention...I immediately had one of my managers collect some quotes for a new unit and labor (never use Yelp!

We received a call from a potential client that is in pre-foreclosure and would like to work with us, however, the situation is a bit odd.

The case was being dragged on in court, all the while we were receiving harassing notices stating service would be terminated and a lien would be placed on our property.

If he received no compensation, yes...as long as he doesn’t represent anyone.

Your questions are excellent for starting out. 

If, however, you are buying it with cash and without an inspection, you could tell the seller that you can close in a few days, which might let you negotiate for a lower purchase price.In the scenario where there is a loan with interest, and the interest is all your father-in-law receives (he isn't getting any of the profit after the sale), then he is indeed a true lender and this is a true loan/mortgage.

The lease received from the prior landlord states that the tenant did not give a security deposit, her lease is up for renewal in 6 months.

Is there any other income you receive that we haven't previously discussed?

Over time, as the property value after rehab seasons, you pay down the note a bit, and receive additional cash flow, re-configuring the financing on the property might produce more bang for the buck.