Does anyone have any experience on working with them and/or their product?

We want him healthy and whole and productive.

This loan product has a VA inspection during your appraisal (nothing scary).

That’s a challenging situation since you haven't defined the final product yet.

Yes, this is pretty normal - generally conventional loans like this are super competitive (since everyones essentially offering the same product) so shopping and finding some deals especially with smaller banks and brokers can yield good rates well under the "prevailing headline market rates"

2nd questions; I Just got pre approved for a non QM product: 20% down, 8.25% interest rate, 12 month pre payment penalty period, 2 points, and Conforming Conventional product: 25% down payment, 8% interest rate, no pre payment penalty, 1 point fee. 2-4 unit in Ohio.

I would check out Craig's book (https://store.biggerpockets.com/products/the-house-hacking-s...).

I’m looking to collaborate with others like myself who are starting out and needing help, whether it is actual physical help with a renovation or moral support.

The advantage of using a new build, when available, is a first-come-first-served environment instead of the multiple offer pay over list market in resale product.  

I know I annoy them sometimes but it is kind of like your doctor pushing you to stop downing burgers and fries because it is affecting your physical health.