@Daniel EvenchenI don't know where you got this idea of "extracting" cash from an IRA, but your understanding of the concept is totally incorrect.

- Buyer's Agent- My mom, Traci Greene with The Greene Team with Coldwell Banker Wallace & Wallace- Lender- Marissa and Margo with United Capital Lending- Listing Agent- Kendra Ellis with The Greene Team with Coldwell Banker Wallace & Wallace- Contractor- Lee Ellis with Ellis Construction Concepts/ Nice Flippin Homes

Even some of the terminology/concepts I don’t know or understand.

Not everyone agrees with the concepts, but that’s part of it - learning what works for others and adapting it to work for you.

I currently have a freelancer working up business logo concepts, so I do not have a logo for my company yet to include on my mailers. 

Then the one hold out that never wanted to sell holds partial ownership with him, and he has the controlling interest.was a very interesting concept

I also don't think wanting to get paid is a California concept.

To keep it simpler, I think I’ll pick 2 or 3 of these locations.I’d really like to hear some lessons learned, suggestions or advise from investors that have properties in these areas.

Do your homework, understand the core concepts, and review a lot of deals.

I have done some reading, and I understand the concept of a "gift of equity", which I think could allow me to use some existing equity as a down payment for my own mortgage on the property.Here's what I am thinking:Appraised Value: $140,000Family member's mortgage balance: $90,000I purchase for: $112,500 (Pay off $90,000 mortgage, plus $22,500 down payment (20%) from gift of equity)Cash out of pocket: Closing costsEquity after closing: $140,000 - $112,500 = $27,500I am wondering if anyone is familiar with this process, especially in MN, and could let me know if that scenario makes sense.