Dang the title alone has me wondering what % of sub/urban America (where most Americans do live) qualifies nowadays!?

Regarding the entity requirements, some lenders only loan to LLC's, partnerships, or corporations, and not individuals.

Robert: Have you checked the American Association of Private Lenders website?

David: We don't loan in FL, but I send BP members to the American Association of Private Lenders website.

The ultimate goal is once I’ve created a strong enough portfolio I can make the switch from corporate life to actively managing the portfolio.

They also use terms like corporate leasing to try and skirt the fact they are listing on Airbnb.  

You are mixing up two different things.You will probably form an LLC that will own the property.You will then have to decide ownership percentages, who managing partner will be and who will do what.For tax purposes, you will need to decide on corporate type: C-Corp (no), S-Corp (maybe), partnership (1065 tax form). 

As you brought out, between body corporate fees, maintenance fees and capital works there wasn't nearly enough return on our dollar.The investing climate is different in the US to Australia, many people were burned trying to hold on to property for appreciation, the same did not happen in Australia.

Many of the healthiest malls are "premium outlets" that cater largely to foreign tourists and the dwindling class of upscale American households.

GO HAVE A CONVERSATION with that guy-- it is in his best interest to find a number you can both work with.The problem is that Americans know nothing about how to negotiate.