To me, being financially free would to be able to work a more flexible schedule, be on the boat on days when I would typically be at work or on the mountain on mid-week powder days! 

I do understand your question so here is what I typically look for.

Account Closed is correct buyers or loan officers/banking institutions will typically order/pay for the environmental reporting due to it being a tool for them should their be any liability or issues with the property. 

Are there any ways to secure financing on investment properties without a typical 9 to 5 job?

If they seem open to it then I would reach out to the trustee, who is typically also an attorney. 

Generally speaking your typical guru coaching program teaches you concepts of how to analyze a market, how to talk to brokers, how to raise capital, etc... so you can practice the business despite where you and the guru live. 

I want to learn everything about a house, I don’t want to be the typical narrow minded real estate agent.

Which is why LOs are typically risk free for tenants as they can also lis pendens the real property they're suing over. 

@Christopher WestUsually there is a minimum loan amount, not sure about a VA loan but I've heard 50k is around the smallest loan you can typically get on a residence.

I have listed foreclosures in the past and typically there is a time frame that the personal property has to be kept, but only if it is over a certain dollar amount.