But as I discovered, has no real significance to the apartment game, except for the ability to market and raise money.

Connecting with other investors was a game-changer for me when I started.

One search on Youtube returns hundreds of videos that go over exactly how a STR can be used to offset W2 taxes.

I was listening to their videos. 

Paid a top local esigner to come have a look and all she did was insult our cute little place that was doing just fine.....But I think where a designer could add value is by suggesting unique areas, like game rooms, coffee bars, outdoor BBQ/play areas, and stuff like that. 

Is there a video that teaches how to do that somewhere?

If you're going to need a mortgage, you're locked out of the game. 

I have videos on my channel of tenants who have exercised the lease option, showing gratitude for the opportunity that they had to do the lease option.Additionally, I work with a ton of great wholesalers and I know a bunch of Sub to people as well.

My resources and skin in the game is being allocated to the remaining balance of X purchase price.What path do you recommend in this scenario? 

Yes, I have documented all of these things and even have video of this woman agressively accusing me of lying and telling me that she heard I was really something.