My Facebook budget is based on the cost of a conversion.  

That will allow you to listen to conversations, ask questions, find out why they do the things that they do.

I know Willie Smith is active in Greenville, might be worth a conversation to get started?

However, who is responsible for having the conversation with the financial institution?

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But I have heard anecdotally from conversations with other investors that 1) private lenders are pulling back until they see the effects of the economic contraction, and 2) closings that are happening, seem to be taking longer.

I've been having many one-off conversations on this topic with colleagues, associates, and clients, especially as of this week.

Which is a whole different conversation of how we got to that place. 

For the best explanation on how markets work, I really like Ray Dalio's "How the Economic Machine Works" youtube video.As far as sellers not wanting to consider seller financing, as with anything, I think it's all in how you frame the conversation. 

If your zoning application WAS approved, you would then have to submit signed and sealed alterations plans by a registered architect that demonstrates that the conversion meets all current codes, including existing building, Architectural life safety, Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, energy and fire protection.