That could become part of your negotiation and offer with the seller, through offering non-refundable earnest money and having the seller make a cash for keys agreement to get a tenant out prior to closing.Cheers,Melissa

If I represent my friend, could I pledge my 3% commission into the home for credits, buy downs or as more money down for a down payment instead of taking a cash deposit?

Show them how you have made money doing this and how you plan for the times when you are in between jobs.

He wanted to house-hack his house by renting the extra rooms to his friends.

That's good money!

One thing to look out for is your debt to income ratio, so just make sure the bank knows that's where the down payment money is coming from.

They also charge the tennant $49 mo for a pet fee (because they said if I allowed pets I would get a renter faster (I did not want pets), but they keep that money too!

I’m considering using that money to start investing in real estate.

this is me and my partners 1st deal we got 14 days to find a buyer/ or find another exit strategy.My question is, how can me and my partner work with a private lender to get this deal closed if our buyers we made contact with are not serious about closing but we know there is money to be made in the deal!?

Extra taxes (I think it's 8.25% for Houston)8.