Was this a lifestyle decision?

When the economy tanks and the sponsors compensation is drastically reduced, the sponsor makes the decision to maintain there lifestyle at the investor’s expense. 

They used the profits to fund their life style.2.

Sounds like a healthy deal.  

Syndicators who brag about their instagram lifestyles without a big old pile of exits... probably bought that lifestyle with their investor's money, whether Ponzi scheme or exorbitant acquisition/management fees.That... or selling high ticket coaching items on the power of real estate.

Focus on the lifestyle and property amenities.

Do you mean the "Healthy Homes Rental Inspection" program? 

Unfamiliar with Huntsville but heard great things about the Alabama coast and have several friends investing in the region..a healthy first step will be connecting with an investor focused and friendly lender. .check in with @Joseph Chiofalo he's my go to investor lender for 20+ years. 

Financial freedom requires maintaining your lifestyle for life.

Most investor loans will require a minimum down payment of 15-20% of the sales price with having healthy credit and a few months of reserves.