Otherwise, there's usually a decent amount of work to be done, I do the work (or have it done), rent it out and benefit from the increased value of the work. 

Having your RE License has a few benefits, like access to MLS.

Either way- it's to their benefit only.Dodd-Frank screwed up enough in this country - I don't think the purpose of their ruling was to stop renters from being able to buy a home.

It was a great way to network and I plan to join just for that benefit alone. 

I guess what I forgot to put in my OP was any tips or tracks of the RE Pros Trade I can benefit from.

Maybe someone knows a good trustworthy property manager in the Midwest or something that could also benefit me.I know it is a unique problem but if anyone has any advise I would love to hear any and all recommendations.

And you get the benefit of having over 100 past ones to catch up onLocate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info.

Leaving them in the trust with you as sole beneficiary guarantees that the properties are reassessed at full market value on Grandmas death but you will get the benefit of the step up in the basis value.Transferring to mom and immediately from mom to you and you can keep the tax base that is worth $11,000+ a year. 

The major benefit is getting a better mortgage rate compared to an investors rate. i would research "house hacking" on this forum and read what others have done executing this strategy.

@Jason LeeRegarding the estoppel question: Absolutely a good idea, regardless of whether the lender requests it.Having one has been a huge benefit to myself as a buyer on multiple cash purchases.