Alternatively if you feel confident in the higher value, I would ask if the lender is open to doing an independent appraisal ordered by an AMC instead of a desktop one. 

I would not invest in real estate with a retirement account.Its too much of a headache and likely not that much better as an investment alternative within a retirement account1) Real Estate provides tax benefits for individuals who own them.

As an alternative, would a cash-out refinance, a home equity loan, or a HELOC make sense for you?

Alternative options include offering a significant down payment, a lease-option agreement, a joint venture, or a deferred closing to align with John's timeline.

Because your alternative is zero income.

Spend like cash for medical weight loss, hormone therapy, IV infusions, aesthetics, specialty treatments, supplements, and more!

Spend like cash for medical weight loss, hormone therapy, IV infusions, aesthetics, specialty treatments, supplements, and more!

. ;-)  While I wait for delayed communication from them, I am looking for alternate management in the Canton area. 

I'm not sure how fast you want to scale, but I see that as a feasible alternative if you don't want to go through the process of either BRRRing or the fix and flip. 

If this isn't an attractive alternative to your business partner then you might consider changing the ownership structure or operating agreement as one of your options.