I believe emotions play a big role here.

But it would be a fun exercise to come up with those creative solutions, especially considering many would be based in brand new technology. 

I've been the renter in this situation for two years, and now it's time for me to switch roles and become the landlord.My main question is regarding a down payment.

Others, which sounds like you’d be more geared for would, be an outside Loan officer role where you aren’t given a base salary, however you are compensated based on the deals you source yourself.

In order to not have an effect on current rent roles I will accept it returned as a rebate until the unit sells.That shows it is a business transaction and its nothing personal.

We don't offer any rent credits, but will frequently give seller concessions if the option is exercised and the tenant/optionee buys the property.

I would meet as many of them as your schedule allows and interview them as if the roles are reversed.

All 4 on the mortgage, we are all Members of the LLC, and each have our roles in running the rental.

You also want to be sure the terms are such that you can pay off your loan if the buyers do choose to exercise their options.Lease options can be structured in very predatory ways. 

Placing property in LLC most likely will effect the mortgage and give the lender the right to exercise the due on sale clause.