@Nicholas L.Thanks for the info about the legal forms and lender service. 

From what I recall about the property you're interested in doing something with it seems that you really need to find a way to lock yourself into some sort of a position, something that gives you some legal footing.

We had a hard time and they said no because my baby daddy (together for 17 years, just not legally married) just bought out his business partner and didn't have the business in his name 100% for 2 years (never mind that he started to company 10+ years ago) and our credit scores weren't superb at the time, low 700s. 

Initially, my goals were to design and construct the high dollar spaces within a home that have enthusiasts drooling over  portfolio pics.

Is this at least legally sound?

I don't know what legal recourse they have but ethically I'd want to make it right.

I am an investor, self managing landlord, and GC, I specifically don't Want to get a realtor license so I’m not considered a real estate professional for tax designations so when I periodically sell something, I still qualify for long term capital gains.  

Above-board and legal or not at all

My PM has advised me that they have a different client who has successfully fought the appraisal, but it took about 3 years, and probably cost a fortune in legal fees. 

I'm not a lawyer and this isn't legal advice - but my gut says that no release will be release-y enough if he slips and cracks his skull open.