In fact, out of 15+ deals I've submitted NONE have been purchased by Mentor Financial Group.

I did purchase my lot in cash.For the financial side, there are different options, and I am far from an expert. 

While both involve finding and properly securing a site and bringing it to full entitlement, the ground-up process includes the land piece but gets way more involved and complex to execute.The full "Monty" for ground-up development needs to include financial literacy, an explanation of metrics, and how they work.

It wasn't just a financial decision, I'm passionate about RE and way over my previous career in aviation.

Sounds like you are in a pretty strong financial position.

I know, sorta defeats the purpose of an LLC from a financial perspective, but gets the job done.

If the assets makes financial sense to keep otherwise, hiring a PM solves your problem and allows you to keep a performing asset.

How long it takes to be financially ready is different for everyone.

Buying an investment property at 21 shows amazing foresight and financial responsibility.

If you have not yet, try building your financial model with this in mind.