So I require skin in the game (average is 5% to 15%) to offset this.

I wouldn't be opposed to having a little skin in the game (closing costs, inspections, etc) I would be living there paying market rent and doing the improvements myself.

I have invested in real estate casually in the last several years, and am looking to step up my game by learning from those willing to help, and succeeding with real estate. 

I don't think anyone has ever said anything about sheets, towels, Keurigs, wifi speed, tv stations, pack-n-plays, the games in the game room, the upgraded appliances, etc.

And then your REI income matches your W2 income the first time etcTo your question: equity is the name of the game.

Forums and meetups like BP have changed the game for my family for generations to come AND for generations for people in our homes. 

And you can also buy them when they're beaten down and underpriced due to market overreactions like currently, due to rapid rise in US 10yr rate.I've read and watched multiple Good Egg offerings and they are typical of many feeder funds and to be fair like many primary GP/syndicators as well for both taking on unnecessary risks and also charging confiscatory fees, as #1 they have no skin in the game and #2 they get a big cut up front whether project fails or not, find GPs that are investing >10-15% of their own cash into every deal.good luck and sorry this happenedlooks like they are a fund of funds setting up crowdfunding to invest in other offerings.

Real estate is one of the best mind-sharpening exercises in the investment world simply because getting it wrong there is no stock liquidation or quick way out.

If your new servicer wants to play games, file a complaint with the CFPB and dispute with the credit bureaus.

.: @Zach Howardlots here but i'll tackle just a couple things quickly...