I believe the lenders you are communicating with are not articulating this well or simply don’t want to acknowledge they are conservative and it’s easier for them to point to the amount of cash consideration you’ve invested. 

I want to learn as much as I can, just like us all, but want to help a mentor grow as well.

Educate well.  

I am in PCB as well, but my CPA won't believe me writing off a trip to Panama City, Panama, for "Real Estate."

That is not true and there is upside to your build or conversion, just needs to be well planned and good execution by the investor. 

What’s interesting is that I cash flow pretty well and haven’t dealt with tenants not paying.

I pitched this deal originally to several local investors I had known over the years, & ALL wanted to "steal" it from me.

It was $5.99/month, but it worked very well.

Hey, I'm 19 as well!

The company may as well.