You can always refinance to pull cash out down the road, but maximizing cash flow is a very common goal.

not always but commonly

@Mitchell RustenAny common printer paper will work (20lb bond is typical).

I also include furniture for the common areas such as a couple of basic sofas, a wall mounted television, dining table and chairs and other odds and ends.

Good morning @Aryka Ortego,I don't see too many partnerships like this in the residential investment space (4 units or less) but it may be more common in the commercial space.

Is it common?

This is very common in the business and while it might be foreign to some buyers, to many others it will be right up their alley.  

@Brian Neyhart yes, this is a common method to use....if you have the equity to do it.  

My question is does Bigger Pockets verify that a lender is not some scam artist?

.- Is it common for brokers to require exclusive buyer agreements (ie you promise to only work with them in the particular market) or do you go exclusive after a specific property is identified?