Most advice I've heard is just to approach them after the sale, which in my mind is too late.  

Yes if you mean support yourself after you finish your regular job effectively using rent as a pension. 

I've been trying find topics here on BP for the SBC, sadly nothing posted lately in the last year. 

But in late 2019, I set a bold goal: close my first deal in 2020.

But ensure it is legit, if you are audited, and you didn't rightfully take the position, it's not just the tax - you'll be hit with late payment penalties, substantial underpayment penalties, interest, and potentially fraud related penalties if it can be determined that you knew you didn't meet the qualifications but claimed it anyways. 

I got my real estate license in my late 20's, kept updated on continuing education, but only activated the license after all my kids started school. 

When meeting for the holding deposit the prospective tenant was 40 min late due to work and not being able to find place to get a money order.

You said you lacked 6 weeks or so finishing?

I have a great general contractor and agent that tours the homes, does the work, and finishes up punch list items.

my business is building new homes and i have 12 presales currently so just finishing those up and they will all close so rates are not affecting me.