Here is the scenario, the borrower misses a few payments, but resumes paying on time.

You will want to have some money handy and work with a contractor and there are construction loans but it may be difficult if this is first time without a partner who is experienced and has a nice resume of builds.

I am looking for an assistant property management position to gain experience and build a resume.

Your experience and resume of recent deals has more weight than your personal financial position.

And of course we were "going to end up being fried like a potato in nuclear holocaust", How do you plan your investing when everyone will be living in a Mad Max world. 

If the agent refuses to present the offer you can avail yourself of the nuclear option and present the offer directly.

I am currently in the process of eliminating all my debt (about 7000) and then resume my savings.

If I can help in any way with resume, market insights, and guidance as you look to break into this space, please let me know!

His resume, including being the youngest ever president of the National REIA when he ran BREIA, which I see he posted here, is stellar. 

There are gurus all over the place with absolutely zero resume/background that are charging $10K/pop for info...which many are willing to pay.