The OP said the tenant was evicted through court, so I assume they have a judgment and can turn that over to collections.

Many people say "I know for a fact none of my family has judgments" but family members regularly do not discuss their financial problems with other family members, may be unaware of legal issues and their standing, and there also could be fraud.You should also consider any prior spouses among the parties that ever lived at the property as a marital interest attachs regardless if they were on title unless resolved by express court decree (in which case former spouse should join the conveyance).An attorney is not required - though you will need a properly drafted deed, GITREP form, and affidavit of consideration to record.

The deals must be appealing enough for them to join the loan and provide the down payment.

The delta between purchase price and ARV was the most appealing.

Something to try to appeal to more than just 1 segment i.e. ping pong enthusiasts :)

Homes that appeal to our target tenant segment range from $350,000 to $475,000, so the supply of housing we target remains almost the same regardless of how many new homes are built.DemandPopulation growth drives housing demand and price and rent increases.

Small claims court maybe.

You can appeal it, and they will get a BPO for the property.2.

Should I take this to small claims court?

As long as the tenant receives it and signs a copy, you should be good.Certified Mail works because the Courts accept this as delivered even if the tenant never picks it up.