You can even diversify across asset classes - think MF, self-storage, mobile home parks, office space, etc - AND geographic location.One limiting factor though is whether you are accredited or not.

How do I find public reits for non accredited investors?

If you're accredited you'll have a lot more opportunities open to you.

That is the key  raising money is credibility and create relationships.Grant advertises because he has a fund that is registered and he can accept non accredited investors as well. 

We also homeschool so I can see a case for furniture being destroyed. 

I meet the qualifications for an accredited investor and have a strong interest in multi-family in the long term so that leaves me with a lot of options.

Need to be an accreditate investor with city and you need to agree to improve the property within one year. 

Both are financially strong ( all of our investors are accredited) and have other relationships with the banks.There are also some smallish private equity funds that will lend at interest rates in the 8-9% range on portfolios of notes, minimum loan size starts at $1,000,000 with 60% max LTV.In both instances the lenders want to see the quality and performance of the underlying notes being used as collateral.

Does anyone have experience investing with Than Merrill of Fortune Builders as an accredited investor on one of his purchases?

Assume an accredited investor and no securities law issues for simplicity.1) Homeowner pays for a legitimate appraisal.2) Homeowner grants the right to Investor to receive 10% of any appreciation above the appraised value when and if the house is sold.3) In exchange, Investor pays the homeowner an amount equal to 10% of the appraised value, with 20% down and the rest on an interest-only promissory note held by Homeowner.4) The note bears interest at Prime + 0% and does not have any origination fees or prepayment penalties.5) The investor gets credit for 10% of the eventual net proceeds from sale with the net being 10% of net sales proceeds less the remaining balance of the loan.6) If the investor defaults on the loan and fails to cure the default, the claim on the equity is forfeited.7) The homeowner remains fully responsible for costs of maintenance, insurance and taxes, but this is offset somewhat by the interest on the loan and the cash received upfront.8) Presumably if there is a gain beyond the homeowner's basis, there is no tax for now unless the proceeds exceed $250k for an individual or $500k for a couple.