If don't need construction funds can just do a bridge loan no income and no doc with 30% down for upto 24 months interest only 

This would reduce the capital basis for that individual in the LLC but will not be considered taxable income.

At 18 I would focus on income, saving, learning and having a strong foundation. 

You can get another income producing area of the house and it still be separate. 3.

Finding good income generating properties does open up some creative financing opportunities but it's good starting out to stick to a comfort range.

So while it feels like I’m making the right decision by looking elsewhere, and Phil’s brand is, at best, tarnished to me by this experience, has anyone had legitimate, W-2 income replacing success through Freedom Mentor?

You have 2 limiting factors: lack of consistent W-2 income and minimal capital.

Let me know if you’re interested in coming.

Down payment can be higher than primary, but the good thing is that you won't need that much income to qualify because lenders can you 75% of the market rents for the units of the property.

I would suggest for your first acquisition to "house hack" and buy a primary residence that you can get preferred financing on and also make some income on.