I find the stories interesting as I try and see how I could use their experience and lessons learned to my benefit.My latest read is Ray Dalio's book who is the founder of Bridgewater (Very - Very successful Hedge Fund - That I frankly never heard of - Shocking but True)In the book Ray does a great job of breaking down is career, struggles and lessons learned in the first half and then spends time on the "Principles" he wants to share. 

I ended up going to my local (SoCal) Wells Fargo and they got the job done. 

They get the same jobs every time we upgrade a unit.

I currently have a day job and am interested in having a management company help me with this property since I'm new to being a landlord. 

The day will come.While you are waiting, learning and saving try to get a job in the trades so you can get some experience.

I was wondering if this will affect me negatively when applying for a job and if I’m better off staying self employed until I find a property and my loan is squared away.

He eats with them, visits, but only stays the night occasionally.

I have significant experience in the syndication space (my old job as Director of Acquisitions), but have never had to raise earnest money and/or do a JV.

Our goal is to eventually create enough monthly cash flow through rental properties to quite our jobs so we can travel and enjoy time with friends and family.  

I do know a good bit about development because my father has done several sub-divisions on his own over his life as well as my professional job as an architect gives me a very unique perspective and knowledge base that most people in REI will never have.