I generally never take anything completely off the table but I usually back off homes that have foundation issues.

She had to bring money to the table to close but was so happy to be out of the situation she could move on..

Also in the PA would be your time table for meeting the contingencies such as inspection along with a time line of when that needs to be completed and accepted usually.Is that what you did?

Here's how we'd structure the deal:He will use his private lender to fund the deal and put both of our names on the loan so that I can begin to build a relationship with his lenderBoth of our names will be on the deedI'll bring $10-20k to the table for closing costs, holding fees while finding a tenant, cosmetic work, etc.I will manage the tenant directly while he advises me through any difficultiesProfits are split 50/50I think this will be a great way for me to get started as a buy & hold investor and learn the ropes from an experienced landlord and I want to use other people's money to bring my $20k to the table.

As for "what happens to the mortgage,"  they will pay it off at closing with the money you bring to the closing table.  

I'd love some advice on what I could bring to the table to discuss. 

If you go out and find a great deal on a car, then sit down at the table, try an negotiate a good deal and get financing, 1 - your chances are better at getting a good deal if your waving cash and 2 - if you find out you can't get financing not only did you waste your time and the sellers time, BUT someone will quickly be by to buy that vehicle you fell in love with.Opportunity favors the prepared!

I am trying to determine the best strategies to increase my depreciation and lessen the time table.

I'm based in Seattle, and am gearing up to invest in my first property in 2017.I don't have a huge amount of cash to bring to the table, but offer handy work and real estate knowledge.My brother is interested in partnering.

How much money did you leave on the table in 2016?