Or do REI pro’s still outweigh the cons of high rates? 

The value you'll get outweighs the salary. 

So, while most syndicators realize the reputation damage will far outweigh the expense reimbursement, it is not guaranteed and theoretically, if the partnership fails to acquire the asset, you could be liable for out of pocket costs, sometimes with interest included.  

If there is a benefit, look into whether the benefits outweigh the costs.From your analysis, it appears that it is not required.

I would try to not let emotion play a role here and outweigh what it says on paper as to what makes the most sense to do- ergo being too eager to have one buy and hold property if it made more sense to sell. 

If you find one that will; make sure the closing costs don't outweigh the savings.

Again, we often perceive change as a risk, and our brains trick us into believing that the risk of losses can outweigh the risk of gains.

Quick update after taking into account @Steven Tawresey and @Evan Polaski's advice and chatting with another lawyer and lender, I've decided to go with a commercial loan from a regional bank (FirstBank).I think the benefits - higher leverage (80% vs 75%), finance the reno budget, avoid due on sale risk, build track record with the bank - outweigh the drawbacks of higher interest rate risk (7yr fixed vs 30yr) and a slightly higher rate. 

If charges outweigh the deposit, do you normally just cut your losses? 

Biggest arguments are that the benefits from having a legitimate selling agent (legal stuff, fighting for better prices, etc) far outweigh the costs involved.