:>)There's a real estate investment product designed for such people ... it is a REIT.

I was wondering if the (always fantastic) BP community could advise me if anyone knows of an institution that lends in Ohio that have a 30 year fixed rate product (or if that is a pipe dream for me)? 

How do you know how much money you need for a down payment unless you know what type of loan or loan product they have, and how much down you need for that product? 

So, what happens if I move in, pay myself a rent, to keep it "productive" then report as an income to satisfy the IRS?

You could ask the contractor to email you a document or product description, also at a very specific time. 

I did not go with this lender as the product turned out not to be a HELOC but instead a refinanced loan product.

Stocks, bonds, and insurance products were covered in detail (don't get me started as to why), but not real estate.I would like to find some resources that discuss the role of real estate in a diversified investment portfolio.

I'll mention two things: Learn everything you can about being a great landlord and productive property manager should you choose to go the route of self-management.

Commercial Mortgage Brokers have up to the 30 year fix and amortization products. 

It's a great product and gosh, I may seriously consider using it on my next buy and hold.