@Carnell WebbI highly recommend you work with a seasoned investor on your first 3 to 10 deals so you can get a clear understanding how to draft a contract, contract law, how to properly assign a contract, language that an assignment agreement should contain, what your liability is when assigning, etc.

A title transfer is generally all that NEEDS to be done (quit claim deed) but you should check to make sure he has clear title even though he has it in hand, no liens etc, make sure the title is recorded properly, and get a title insurance policy.

I guess by volume I mean the necessary amount of offers to find the appropriate deal it won't be much if I find the proper deal, but I'm wondering more about the realtor becoming frustrated working with me if we are looking to buy distressed properties that we can not get at the price level necessary for the purchase to make sense.  

He/she may be able to help you analyze the deal, obtain proper financing, etc.What are the details of the property?

I'm assuming you are talking about a poured basement with proper waterproofing, ventalation, etc.The foundation/basement is the most expensive part of the build. 

I am not a flipper, but I have filed for permits in Garner, Fuquay, and Holly Springs... but not Raleigh proper.

This is much easier said than done as the proper way to depreciate the property is to have a cost segregation study done on the property to break out the total cost between the land value, building components, land improvements and tangible personal property.

A lease-option might make her feel secure as it would provide her income but not require her to vacate (if I understand these structures properly).Is it permitted to record a seller-financed note with 0% interest in the State of California?

It is asking for people to enter the country legally and go through proper vetting.

The next step for me is to get a grip on proper property management, and making sure I start my Property Management Career on the best possible foundation.