I've encountered this numerous times...Shingle-like metal may be another story, but I am still leery.  

I have taken numerous courses, attended numerous conferences with hopes to attain the knowledge I need to invest.

@Candi Perrotta There are numerous threads here on BP about Morris Invest and Ocean Pointe scamming investors in similar way as you have experienced - mostly in Indianapolis. 

I have tried calling their office several times and sent numerous emails with no response to anything.

That does not mean you are obligated to use that lender if your offers gets accepted but will help minimize the number of credit pulls you have if getting pre-approved with numerous lenders.

I have numerous other private money contacts as well if you'd like to grab coffee and chat.

Seems like there were court decisions in numerous states.

Yes, there are numerous ways to go about it if the numbers all align with the right lender that can look at your specifics. 

Buying things on Craigslist, garage sales, lemonade stands, hot dog carts, private party used car sales, flea markets, gambling, and day laborers don’t take anything else.

@Amy Charles I'm personally not a fan of investing in real estate through 401k's or IRA's because real estate comes with numerous tax benefits that you lose when you stick it in a tax-deferred account.