The main hassle of conventional lending is being able to provide proof of income and seasoning.

I'm still struggling to get my first AirBnB but values are rising, gross annual yield is mainly above 10%

1-The goal wouldn't necessarily be to eventually to rent it out, main goal is to build equity and create value.

This would include doing mainly flips so i can get a solid return from that money or possibly even doing private money lending. 

Try calling the PM from a different phone number and also try the number on rental listings (if it is different from their main number).

Regarding a 1031 exchange, while the property was rented and treated as an investment property during your deployment, if you maintained it as your primary residence for tax purposes, it may complicate eligibility.

My family has been active in the Las Vegas real estate market since 1989 working mainly in single family rentals. 

The main condition was I had to have the downpayment (20%) first, close the deal, and then execute the owner financed 2nd mortgage. 

Usually OH and IN are the two main states they I have seen booming business in for 204 unit REI's.

What you seem to be missing is your main need is an accounting system.