Over my time (over 30 years), if your lender will make a call to the seller/seller's rep to explain the level of due diligence we've done on the buyer usually goes a long way.

I don't know any lenders doing this other than possibly the VA (can anyone confirm/deny this?)

Let me address your questions and provide insight from a lender's perspective:1.

Horrible tenants increase cautiousness and interaction with insurance Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Ideally, finding a lender who offers a balance of both is key. 

I have a good friend who has some great data on all the different neighborhoods - I am happy to share that with you.Also, if you don't have a lender already, I have some rockstars that I know like and trust.What sport do you play?

If your plans are in late 2025 to 2026 I think its too early to engage with agents as well as lender honestly.

I have purchased apts. in foreclosure because the lender did not know that they had negotiated a non-recourse loan with the owner. 

Are there any lenders on this forum that would be willing to loan?

Would you absolutely reject working with MFA and Zeker?