After each step was crossed they would “suggest” you be a part of the next step which would basically require some form of cash down payment.

I would suggest the CPA (and I can recommend a good one locally if you need one) because how you set up the entity has a huge baring on how you're taxed.

suggestions of structure?

I suggest you call a few local lenders in your new location and see if any of them do VA multifamily loans.  

Please share your thoughts/suggestions or recommendations?

Those %s beat a lot of the suggestions people have given, imo.- Leveraging is key for highest cash flow, but you may not need to worry about it with your level of capital if you just pay cash.

What I might suggest is to have a quick 1 page or 1 paragraph "example ballpark job quote" pitch for 1-3 small example projects for them to respond to based on something within their field/trade.

Id suggest you look into taking on a private investor or go back to your lender and ask for more.

Comments or suggestions?

Any suggestions?