The difference between a Real Estate Investment & that of a stock investment is the ability to use the bank's money.You can't have a bank pay for 3/4 of your stock.

Some people consider a loan from the bank using "other people's money" or a credit card advances as "other people's money" but really it's your debt that you owe, interest you will pay, etc.  

One of those 5 loans has now completed a short sale, and I got back 94% of the principal (it hasn't hit my bank yet, but I'm sure it will), which represents the net proceeds.

As morbid as this sounds, this exclusion would theoretically extend to employees, family members, etc.As the result of the Presidentially declared disaster, a document used in your 1031 exchange is damaged, lost, or destroyed.As the result of the Presidentially declared disaster, a bank or lending institution temporarily delays, or decides to not move forward with a mortgage.As the result of the Presidentially declared disaster, a transaction is delayed because of the inability to obtain flood, casualty, or title insurance that is required to complete the transactionDon’t assume that you’re automatically granted an extension simply because the above conditions are met.

I know some banks might not see that income as a steady source.

However, when I look at the county tax record, the owner is listed as US Bank National.

I'd suggest talking to loan officers at the smaller local banks in the Triad - they will have more flexibility in their underwriting criteria than the big banks, might be willing to spend more time with you assembling a good loan if he or she feels a relationship can develop, and will be more in touch with the local marketplace.

I was thinking I could just open another bank account at a different bank.

Try small local bank. 

THey are institutional i.e. private banks and generally really solid. rates are between hard money and conventional but they are a good option when in a spot such as yours.Try doing a general search in Scotsmans Guide.