Even go from multiple SFHs and consolidate into an industrial building.

Probably not since at the time I am unemployed (I work in animation and the entertainment industry is on its head right now).

I do not know yet if I'll be good at it (how can anyone know unless they try).I don't know any one in the industry - yet.

Mostly he's interjecting opinion about an industry he doesn't know intimately. 

As other PML business owners here have commented, this isn't uncommon in our industry but you can certainly find local or regional banks that would be easier to do business with and not require an audit - haven't heard of this before.

So rather than just getting a 'gift' one day, he will also have worked the industry and gotten his hands dirty....Passing on RE is such a powerful thing to do IMHO.

Colleagues I know in the industry would only do this for their most experienced and financially capable clients.

Also, in Southern CA, we have a lobbying group named the BIA (Building Industry Association)...they lobby for pro housing legislation both at the state level and city/county level. 

You basically become a fractional owner in a large piece of property, such as an apartment complex or retail or industrial property.

As a mortgage professional for twenty plus years, I can share that the mortgage market is similar to other competitive industries.