In fact attorneys have come to me to learn about tax sale investing.Ned,My post was not intended to reduce anyone's credit on this post or in this great community  at all.

Working on talking with a tax pro on all this looking more for personal experiences on seed some $$$ in acct vs scheduling a $$$ transfer each month to a personal acct that still pays the mortgage. it just seems easier to put 2-4K in the account to start now and reduce the paper trail?

There are gift tax implications but they will just reduce your lifetime exclusion rather than create a tax liability.

@Thomas Salisbury I agree with others.Let's talk about the crux of the issue - they are looking to make things more affordable.There're are a number of ways - if you're willing to move away from the classic adversary landlord - tenant position - you could work together with your residents to reduce both your expenses.Just look at where you have similar expense and what you're willing to share.

reducing debt is the best way ,pay off loans etc

In this sense it reduces your rental income 1-to-1, and any remaining income (after other real expenses and depreciation) is what will be taxed. 

This amount is reduced by $1 for every $2 that your MAGI exceeds $100K.  

Your brother will maintain your cost basis in the gifted shares, and you will have to file a gift tax return which will reduce your tax free estate upon death. 2.

Again, if someone else is paying for it and it'll reduce your monthly bill, why not.* Basically the above two both amount to jacking up closing costs so you have a place to spend that money, in a way that reduces your monthly out of pocket.* Timing when you close escrow, and the corresponding prepaid interest. * Reducing the price AND seller credit, keeping things net the same for the seller, and meaning you will get that money back when you sell.Conversely, if there isn't enough money, you can of course jack up your interest rate for a big fat lender credit. 

As property managers we are entrusted by our owners to maximize revenue and income while reducing operating costs wherever and whenever possible.