Regardless, I would have to keep the tenant as it was part of the deal…sort of.

With that said, its not totally impossible for someone in those markets to see some sort of value in those properties that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

If somebody wants to take some sort of percentage wthout putting up capital and expect to be compensated no matter which way the deal goes, then they aren't an investor.The attorney should advise you to make sure the roles are such that there is some sort of tie breaker...If you really want... 

However, when I'm deciding whether to invest in the stock market vs real estate, I sort of HAVE to take an educated guess at what the returns will be on each to make my decision.

If anybody knows a Real Estate Broker in the Sacramento area who'd be willing to take me on, I would really appreciate the lead.Either way, I'd really be grateful any sort of input.Thank you all in advance,Attila

Every deal is different and I'd definitely make sure you have a relationship with these people you are trying to structure the deal with and have some sort of rapport there.I'd be interested in seeing the deal.  

Not saying one is right or wrong ... whatever blows your hair back ...

I am interested in buying a home (first time buyer) and I am wondering if I have to go to a bank to get some sort of loan/mortgage pre-approval in order to buy a home or to be taken seriously by real estate agents?

@Aaron GomezCalifornia is a sort of beastly state when it comes to taxes and filings.

There are always others out there, but it may be a long time where I find cash flow like this in this area, unless I wait until some sort of down-turn in the future.