A successful short-sale typically benefits the borrower (homeowner) in the following ways: it can give them more time in the house (and payment-free); it is better than a foreclosure from a credit report perspective and wold allow him to obtain a new purchase loan for a new home in the future more quickly as compared to having it go through foreclosure.I would encourage you both to reach out to a local realtor with short-sale experience and have them facilitate the transaction, it would not cost you or the owner the commission as it would be paid out of the bank's proceeds.No, in a short-sale I would definitely not offer any payments to him directly that are not known and approved by the bank, you can get yourself in hot water and probably legal trouble by doing that on a short sale.

Typically they are going to give you construction loans at a much lower rate than hard money will.

If all of that checks, then I look for typical problem areas (sewer lagoons, poor markets, too many empty lots, etc). 

EVP typical come in a thicker plank (like 8 or 9mm) which makes it easier to install and gives it a more solid feel.3.

You need to met fellow experienced investors typically at a REIA sometimes at a meetup.org event.   

The main benefit is you don't have to deal with bank underwriting/approval and typically need less than 20% down.

In commercial an offer is not typically used. 

A typical sand and refinish in my market is going to run 600-1500. 

@Darvin Ezell depends on the amount...but wire typically works...title can hold it in escrow and distribute funds accordingly when you close...maybe call the title company and ask their system...what they prefer. 

If no, I would recommend using your local Board approved contract from the local association of realtors...these are typically legalese, but offer the most protection.