It mostly involves creating procedures, following those procedures, and documenting everything.

I knew another GP or syndicator as we call them today.. who also went to Dallas and lost the projects.. that was circa early 90s  ergo what we see in Texas is a nice run up post 08 GFC it was not always like that.And not to beat a dead horse.. but any one doing a syndication as a sponsor who thinks they can stand behind their disclosure documents and then lose the project and they will walk away scott free is really really naïve and is a newbie.

You'll also want to see other documentation such as rent rolls, tax returns, etc.

After 8 years living in this home, we'll be ready to start looking for the next primary residence next year.I believe we're eligible to use an FHA loan again but can't find any documentation.  

It's not going to hurt to have something documented with the sheriff.

This lender is not HML, they're a direct lender offering short term interest only with an option to convert to permanent financing, there is no minimum FICO, they rely on simple documents relying on no income verification.

Have the deal put in escrow with all the documents needed.  

Of course there are some considerations:You need a Qualified Intermediary to assist with the transaction, ensure all documentation is in place, and keep all the money at arms length.

There have been complications in the Lease Option agreements, especially where the Lease and the Option are in a single document - - further complicated when a portion of the rent is accrued  as credit towards the purchase. 

@Donald M. is it possible to amend the documents to allow you to attend the meeting via FaceTime, Skype etc....