I actually donated one to a BP member as an exercise .. and give back to BP that has been so good to me..

Do you then rent the property month-to-month until the option is exercised or expired?

I'll be long done and performing again before they can show up. its also good exercise..

To be a super successful landlord, you have to be street smart and appreciate the role psychology plays in everyday life.

You also have an unrealistic view of what role and duties the buyers agent has in a transaction, it appears. 

I think the difficultly of our tax lien system in Illinois plays a role.

It's a matter of thinking through the transaction, start to finish, define roles and responsibilities of each party, and then ensure a fair split of equity.

What is the typical role for a first hire in a flipping business? 

Take into consideration your relationship to the deceased and their spouse.Clarify your values, roles, and goals.Time to sit down and work out a win-win.Anything's negotiable.It appears to me you haven't fully explored your new role as landlord.

If I’m going to hold and wait for appreciation or to do a flip, then I personally would exercise caution.