Hi Shawn, When I left banking during the last major crash and started this company, we primarily were a commercial bridge lender, but we also were a real estate investor.

As far as my personal investments, I have mainly focused on multifamily - but I do have commercial retail and office investments.

The challenge with using a paid option is expecting one person to have all the knowledge you need to succeed unless that person is giving you access to their board. 

If the residence is inside a gated subdivision or a controlled-access buildingthat is governed by an owner’s association, a letter from the association acknowledging the use and grantingaccess to occupants of the rental unit will be required as part of the application.A short-term residential rental requires a Conditional Use Verification (CUV).A short-term rental use is unavailable and prohibited within a residential unit or a room within a residentialunit that is located in an apartment building.

Bryan I would say PLANNING IN ADVANCE is key.Lot's of investors like GA as it's own of the best investment warm belt states in the country.You need to determine if you are going residential or commercial for the replacement property and what deal size.

As for NMLS, MLO, for commercial real estate loans they do not need that to lend. 

You could ask that they put a year or so of savings into a separate account on which you have view access or receive a monthly statement so you can see they have the ability to pay future rent.They aren't going to last without other income or savings with income at 1.25x rent.

I contacted that agency this week online & got a response they are not writing commercial properties now. 

Yes I am being quoted commercial loans.

In the commercial space, different rules may apply.Other than this, you'd have to discuss the logistics with your broker.