For non-residential applications (like north side green houses) the thermal benefits could be significant and I'd be exempt from permits. 

Which is one of the great benefits for LPs. 

Do your best to find some lenders that are VA saavy to make sure you are uncovering all the potential benefits that are open to you.

Our market is heavy on the appreciation side at the moment but STR's have become an option to increase cash flow and still get the benefits of investing in an appreciating market. 

That's probably the most efficient and immediate ways to reap benefits of RE investing.

I'm willing to be the bad guy here, but I want to make sure I have this clearly organized before I execute the plan.I have thought of asking them to transfer title to me, but then would the tax implications negate the benefits?

So you could be shooting yourself in the foot with a Pic--you never know.I just can't see a photo being any benefit to a buy/sell situation--A good strong offer and the ability to close is what it takes.It may or may not be legal, but your agent doesn't seem to want to open any can of worms with it--(err's on cautious side).Just my 2 cents.

The good thing about this property is its insulated so well that everyone gets some benefit of the others heating/cooling.

Most of the benefit comes in the sign up bonus.

Crowdfunding makes real estate easily accessible, however, in regard to institutional/syndicated real estate investments, the advice of an expert who works in the industry every day, knows all the players and their track records, and performs due diligence on each offering is a great benefit to you and comes to you at no cost.