As a sales professional, you'll find that one of the greatest benefits of investing in real estate is tax saving -- I'm not a CPA and can't advise on this, but I've personally saved a fortune through REP status and cost segregation. 

The person you spoke with may be referencing earnest money deposit (buyer showing the seller they have skin in the game; this can be refundable or non refundable).Some lenders require an application fee (junk fee) and those lenders typically are more expensive to begin with.

You have tons of options and it always depends this is not personalized advice just general info let us know if you have any other questions  

Personally, I would do what you do best.

I'm in the process of purchasing a home for personal use and have come across a dream house.

The second personal residence that I bought was a two unit and lived I one and rented the other. 

I am the only person that will be able to update you in this matter.

I can’t message directly because I’m not Pro on BP, but I’m selling through Christie Perkins of Coldwell Banker, who is the most knowledgeable person I know about the Tallahassee rental market and real estate in general in this city.

I am personally a big fan of some Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida deals, as they are all fairly landlord-friendly.

Keep personal and business finances separate.2.