Real estate + money + relatives + lack of communication = big badda booom.Would recommend next time get all this stuff down in writing up front AND I personally would not use a relative or close friend. 

Is this something that I should rely on my agent to write up in the contract, or should I potentially seek legal advise?

However, you don't know what the prior owner had agreed to in writing with them, so it is likely best to have an attorney handle it for you.

Looking for suggestions for a good accounting/bookkeeping software for rental properties. 

If all goes well we will be writing a PA Monday evening for $230k and moving a nice profit on to the next deal.So anyways, I just wanted to introduce myself, and give a little background info to the group.

Or if you have worked with a estate agent before ask them if they will help you write up the contract.

Because of this, I was wondering if I can pay more for the property and have the seller essentially write me a check for the additional pay. 

Then write it in your lease that this will be reassessed every 6 months or so. 

Ive been looking into automated software but every one of them Im sceptical about hidden costs and sharing my leads.

They can make great money but because of tax write offs won't show the income the lenders need to qualify them.