SEO power. 

I have done this a few times myself and have a few basic recommendations:1) Make sure the seller owns the property free and clear and that it's very clear to both parties whether the arrangement involves a deed of trust or contract for deed2) If a balloon payment is involved, be sure to assess your ability to refinance and make that balloon payment in the future- optional extensions can help manage this risk3) Understand the tax implications if the interest rate is notably above or below market rates4) Get title insurance! 

I can risk assess every individual based on their background, It is screening 101.Thankfully other peoples moral outrage does not interfere with my ability to successfully operate a minimum risk business within the boundaries of the law.Bottom line is laws are never ridged. 

For direct bookings, you've got to improve your SEO ranking on Google. 

Using co-hosts might help distribute management tasks, but this can complicate your ability to meet the material participation requirements, especially the 100-hour rule.

Philly always had the ability to become a great city; but the people who are elected just hurt the hand that feeds it. 

Receiving rent while starting the rehab doesn't affect the ability to deduct these expenses, but you cannot deduct them all at once.

I haven't been able to secure the SBA funding on my own so I questions his ability to do so.My question is whether or not this is normal. 

Low down payment is a significant part of your criteria, Michael, and it obviously fits your personal needs, wants, financial position, goals….But for myself, for instance, ability to pay a low dp is of absolutely no importance.  

Without the ability to obtain a loan / financing - the next steps will be harder to accomplish