Here is what happened after i spoke to everyone here :  It took me 4 yrs but last year finally i closed on my primary residence here in AZ..

I talked to 2 very honest PMs after I had closed on the 2 Indy homes - I should have talked to them before. 

It's a 2bd (with a large office as well), 1.5ba upscale unit in great shape, very well-maintained, and very close to bars, restaurants, and transit.

We should be closing in a few weeks but we are still at phase one.

We are married filing jointly with an income close to 150k last year.

I am also close with a few of the people on this thread.

There should be an "entry fee" that you are marketing to the buyers, and that entry fee should include closing costs, down payment to seller and your assignment fee.

My goal is to generate income since I am closing my business which is my 9-5.

At closing the lender will get wired their payoff to close out your remainder and you should get a big check awesome! 

The location of the lender doesn't necessarily impact your chances of getting a mortgage or the efficiency of the process however, local lenders have a better understanding of the local real estate market and regulations as they are more familiar with appraisers and other closing professionals in the area which can expedite the process and you will get a more personal touch and easier communication.