Just a suggestion for after you call or go in person - send the person a follow up email with a recap of what they told you.

If you can't perform to the new standard were setting, I strongly suggest stepping back and hiring one of us who are setting this new standard. 

In your case I suggest a passive, low risk options like government backed CDs.good luck

I would first suggest getting a real estate lawyer in that area.Is there zoning in that municipality?

For it to be $250 MORE than usual, suggests something else is up. 

Many Realtors will suggest purchasing a property using a FHA Loan, to reduce your out of pocket money.

I suggest contacting an RE attorney who can assess your options.

With now being a weekend, and going on Christmas week, what would you suggest i do?

I don't know anyone personally in Topeka, but the banks I'd suggest you reach out to first are CrossFirst, CoreFirst, and Emprise.

If the numbers aren't there yet, I'd suggest focus on growing your income, look into house hacking as previously suggested, or consider partnering with other investors who can qualify for the loans.