Was it indeed just locked, or did the latch mechanism fail, which often happens with bedroom sets that have plastic components in that mechanism; or did the screws that secure the latch into the door come loose, allowing the latch and/or the screws to prevent the door from opening...also not an uncommon event.

Just added the "official" first meetup post in the Events & Meetup Section! 

Get on the meetup app or facebook groups and look for realtor events and try to become a vendor at one.

Do you focus on networking events, direct outreach, or something else?

A great way to start is by attending RE events and joining a local investors association.

Keep digital records and pictures.  

Absolutely you can, I rolled over my IRA into a fund making double-digit returns. 

Going to local RE events and finding other MTR investors in your area can help as well

In any event, that would mean I’d owe the IRS approximately $6k on each tract of land that I sold?

I'd highly suggest getting to some local meetup groups in MKE:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...When you say you are considering alternative financing options, what does that mean?