You do not need to record the survey.. just have him locate existing pins.. then eyeball it for yourself.You can also ask for an Alta title insurance policy and that will ensure you for enchroachments etc.

I work with new investors on creative financing.

My fiancé and I recently bought a duplex to house hack, now we are looking at other creative opportunities to purchase additional multifamily properties or mobile home parks. 

Check out the creative financing forums, you may get a lot of ideas there

You just have to be creative to get good deals nowadays.  

I could put 25% down, but would like to try for 20% to ensure i have plenty of money for improvements, reserves, etc. 

I'd be interested in hearing some creative agreements others have. 

Any creative ideas how to protect this client from lender setting him up to fail and taking over this lucrative project?

When you are still new at this game though, you have to be creative. 

That meant we had to get creative to fund the $50k repair.