Rent was due by 5th but no communication on late payment and is not responding to my text/emails. 

That plus his willingness to communicate with anyone who asks him questions and his team are very  praiseworthy.

Private lenders are certainly an option but a fund structure would be much more efficient and scalable. 

I have been kicked out of every form of communication relating to this deal.

However, we are taking over from a PM to self-manage and are inheriting the current setup.Our biggest concern is that this first communication from the tenant was a sob story asking for $500 back/off rent.

Do you want cheap, regardless of speed and communication? 

Quote from @Roni Williams: Their communication is non existent.

They have since moved on to a new manager that is in close communication with me to get the repairs done and SDIRA is even offering to pay me the missing rent for December that the evicted tenant never paid.

In addition to tangible screening such as credit checks, evictions, criminal background, & income checks consider intangibles as well - how well do they communicate with you & how professional?

Does anyone have a recommendation for a reliable, quality cleaning company with great communication?