I'm aware of the larger property managers with national footprint, but am hoping to connect with someone local who is not only experienced but can meet face to face.If anyone has direct experience working with Plushyhost or similar types of larger companies, would love to hear your experiences as well.Thanks so much!

I figured why not develop the property get it leased, then sell it to a more national REIT that would appreciate the income. 

None of the lenders we use, national wholesale lenders, report on the borrower's credit.

I thing NAR (Nation Association of Realtors) publishes data on that kind of stuff.

I would expect that more if you compared a mortgage broker and a large national bank. 

But, as in most cases, I would recommend calling around to several other lenders and seeing if any see an opportunity for you to use FHA.Also, while FHA is the cheapest mortgage you can get (unless you are active / retired military and can get a VA loan), there are many low down payment conventional loan options available as well, from both national lenders as well as local entities.Bottom line - call 3-5 lenders, explain your situation, and see what sort of options they can offer you.

There is no national standard that must be recognized by all states and all parties.

Does any one have guidance on the process of becoming a real estate investor? Any testing materials or exam prep? 

Does any one have guidance on the process of becoming a real estate investor? 
Any testing materials or exam prep? 

Join your local Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) that is affiliated with National REIA Go to the National REIA website and they have a tab/page called "Find your local REIA".