I would echo the post about security. 

Being a 20 year mortgage expert and real estate investment veteran, we used our mortgage company to secure below market financing.

In the lease it states that a security deposit of 1 months rent was collected. 

I keep monitoring the properties in the Cleveland Heights area (where we are looking to buy) on Zillow and other web sites but I am sure there are other ways of finding properties.

I completely agree with @Ashish Acharya's points about the cost-effectiveness of a HELOC and the potential credit implications if it’s secured by your primary residence.

Hello, we have a. apartment complex in LA County and want to install security cameras in the common areas.

There really isn't a safe, secure way for someone to protect their interests.

Our goal is to establish a structure where the property owner can secure financing based on the long-term lease with the operational company.Any advice or insights from those who have navigated similar situations would be greatly appreciated!

I guarantee you are more likely to secure favorable terms if the seller likes you and can imagine you as a great operator for the business.

It's simply factual:  you violated the lease by smoking, stop it, remove the resulting odor and that a repeat action could result in eviction and loss of security deposit.