Coupled with radio silence via email has me 99% sure my money is gone.

Anything similar to a NYC subway station at 100 degrees or in the tornado zone makes me question the requestor.But this is a good question.

and how one makes money with it.. ??? 

Interest Rates and Mortgage RatesImpact on Buyers: Higher interest rates can make borrowing more expensive, reducing the pool of potential homebuyers.

A) Just make sure you can do Airbnb in a non-owner occupied property.

Make sure the basement area has egress and it is up to code to be considered a livable space. 

Quote from @Rudy Galan: Im here because I do want to make some investments and grow in real estate.

If it is mortgage to the max, chances are you've pulled that money out to make it work elsewhere. 

Is there a lender/ lender type anyone recommendeds.Contrary to the mis information provided above, I know of no legitimate institutional lender that will lend money in a situation where the borrower has no capital of his own invested, at least since 2008!

It will make that space nice and bright for the homeowner for years to come.Good Luck!