I've recently worked out an arrangement with some friends to partner on some properties as well (and future properties).What are the best options in getting both of us protected when it comes to this partnered-property?

Plus, they just got married and spouse already owns a house where they will live, so they have no need to buy another house in the foreseeable future.

It was right around this time when I seriously started thinking about my future.

And your concern is quite valid and smart looking into the future of possible refi issues.Are you being declined for regular home loans or is the rate just something higher than you hoped?

If not you should ask them why they are not here investing in their companies future. 

If they give you 12k for the right to own 10 % of the equity ( this is all negotiable ) at a future date, their IRA does not incur the liability of owning R E within it.

I am possibly moving to the Kelso/Longview area in near future and am in need of a real estate agent that understands real estate investing (because I barely do).

(granted past performance is no indication of future results.)

I just passed my Colorado RE exam so I could be my own realtor on future deals.

Those duplexes aren't in our inventory any longer, but I'm sure there will be more in the future.