I would focus on finding one that is investment focused and a broker who can shop numerous lender platforms for you.

100% agreed here.And the only investment that I could ever find that is as "passive" as can possibly be.Just need a large enough bag parked at 5.2% and one can go to sleep lol

Also, coffee shops like Bottoms Up Coffee are moving in, and small microbreweries like Brew Dog and Land Grant.

It's in a part of town that is being revamped from former industrial to nice stores, shops, restaurants, and businesses and I believe there is even some money offered to help revamp that part of town if you purchase something and help improve the area.  

That can be both a positive or a negative depending on the opportunity cost of the monthly fee and % of commission they take on every sale vs the opportunity and tools that are given to you.On the other hand smaller local shops can be more flexible when it comes to the terms of full time sales agents vs part time agents.

We just acquired a fairly new shopping center in Florida.

My original thought was to fill in the gulley and build a warehouse structure on it to rent out as either an auto shop or larger storage type facility.

What began as a very soft Spring STR shopping season crescendoed with Memorial Day weekend resulting in prime active listings going pending within just a few days and several with multiple offers. 

I would shop around, maybe the LO you're dealing with is inexperienced and is mis communicating or they may just have odd lending practices?  

You may want to shop around.