They offer an all in one policy, and also had a great rate compared to the others.

Lenders desperately need/want business especially in this interest rate environment (right now, the main source of mortgage loan business in Florida is rehab financing as a result of the hurricane damages) and one way the big players differentiate themselves is by streamlining the process.

Admittedly, they seem a bit sketchy,My question would be, for a person such as my self, how does one go about vetting these syndicates?  

Can't wait to hear about the next one. :)

I can vouch for @Lane Berry he manages I think at least one our units in Houston, excellent job 

However, the one CPA I briefly talked to said the investment would be treated as passive.

.:  Are you talking about creating a first 50% of the note and a second for 50% of the Note and sell the first one? 

No one will care more about your success then you.

The capital required for Denver, and limited cash flow makes it a tough market to get your next one.

Since you want to aggressively invest in the near future, you will need cash and the 30 year option is the right one for you.