Depending on your situation, there are also interest-only loan options that can increase your cashflow.

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i would recommend getting a realtor that specializes in investment properties that would be providing options and comps for you 

My first option would be to anchor a bottom plate to the floor and a top plate to the ceiling and attach studs to the two plates and not have any actual attachment to the brick.

West Ridge Property Management - They offer more a la carte options if you only need help with specific things.Questions to Ask Your Property Manager - A list of questions that can be used to vet your property manager.

He has made it clear he will not owner finance. are there other options for to minimize capital gains tax and in order to make this deal more beneficial to all?

The types of creative financing options I was looking into were a lease option/lease-purchase agreement, loan assumption, wrap-around mortgage, and subject to financing.I guess my question is...

Or do you recommend other options to explore? 

I know this is dinner time, they have a food truck there with pretty decent options. 

Any other options for building cash flow positive home or should i stick to traditional way and finding long term tenants?