You can allocate your proceeds in any manner you want as long as you use them all. 

On the other hand, the real estate that you buy yourself, if bought in a thoughtful  deliberate manner over long periods of time, can actually make you truly rich.  

How does one deal with this in a tactful manner (or perhaps untactful)?

A lot of the information can be found on BP, but having it all laid out in a organized manner was nice.

The most important thing you need to do is call around now and find a general contractor that you like and trust, and more importantly, is willing to work with you on a 203k and is aware if the information that will need to be provided and that will provide that information in a timely manner. 

My idea for a more sustainable future would be to get a job at major CRE firm brokerage in a junior role.

I want to start doing everything in a manner that is safe for me and my private money partner. 

If a major employer like Ryobi, Knauf or Casino pull out for whatever reason, think about what would sustain a town like Shelbyville. 

I am unfamiliar with dialers like mojo or using skype in that manner.

@Matt Feraco I've heard it said that you should replace your W-2 income for a sustained period of at least two years before quitting.