With the future being so uncertain I realized there was a need to do more than just rely on my job for financial security. 

Nothing you mention is "ordinary" and you should charge for all of it. dodged a bullet there thats a very good price take it from the security deposit and call yourself lucky. 

You've definitely come to the right place to find resources and connections.Here, you'll find several knowledgeable and experienced agents who can help guide you in securing the right property.

Private money may be better. 

That being said, while the intent is that most investors in a 506(b) offering are accredited, the sponsor can accept up to 35 "sophisticated" investors into the offering and still be within the rules.All told, private offerings are 100% a buyer beware investment.  

Maybe if you had a good, secure location to store things you could pre-order stuff you think you might need for your next project(s) and stockpile it.

For a truly passive experience you'd probably need to be an investor in private equity deals or be a silent partner on a project.

It may feel cumbersome, but their diligence reflects the level of security and service you can expect once onboarded.

So I did a 3-2-1 buydown and secured a 2.875% interest loan for the first year of the loan, and it will gradually go up a percent each year until it hits my rate of 5.875%!

I would talk to a number of residential, private, and commercial lenders.