I, if not in the business, would probably have an attorney review paperwork, etc. to ensure all is legitimate.

I'm tired of the "hype" and just want to find a legitimate and safe career option.Anyone have a recommendation for what my next step should be?

Our initial thoughts was to update some of the property to have more amenities to add to the guest experience and to offer it as a wedding venue.

I figured it was not a legitimate listing. 

Depends on how you state funds, if it's cash at close and you have no financing contingency or "property must meet or beat appraisal", I'm not seeing where it's crucial.If I'm representing a seller and I see cash at close, I'd counter with a request for proof of funds.In the standard RMLS (in Portland forms), they make you call out the E/M, down and financed amount.As far as source of funds for a loan, as long as it's a legitimate loan, unless you're asked for a stipulation, not seeing why disclosing hard money is an item.

While there are a few of these programs built around people who are (1) successful in the program they’re offering (2) providing a legitimate, ethical way to earn money and (3) honest about the effort, knowledge and experience a customer will need to have a chance at success, the vast majority mislead, lie, or omit one, two or all of the above. 

And you cannot deny a legitimate, prescribed animal.

Also, has anyone ever tried actually offering a full or close to full price on a rehab with X day inspection period and hiring a GC to get a legitimate quote then renegotiating price reductions due to repairs?

I am looking at properties everywhere, my longer term goals are California, East Coast, and abroad.....to be honest I was thinking of the tax benefits of having properties in those places because they are places I like to visit....maybe naive on my part...right now I want to find a one or a few trusted advisors/providers to purchase cash flowing properties to grow our passive income and portfolio.Hi Evelyn -- those are legitimate concerns.  

I am seeking a joint venture partner, Legitimate partner, for a property that we are about to close on Friday, and it got very shady very quickly after that.