It is intangible property that is generally capital in nature in the hands of an investor, but may be inventory in select situations (e.g. dealing in crypto, some mining situations).Your definition of a security is also not a traditional one. 

I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for me to take a look at such as videos to watch, articles to read, and things of that nature.

With the parcel I'm considering, I could fit a trampoline park/gym, a family oriented arcade restaurant, and/or a science driven interactive facility. 

Is this just the nature of obtaining an investment loan or am I going about something the wrong way?

The insurance company will try to determine what caused the crack ... if it was natural soil expansion/compaction, it's unlikely they'll cover it ... if it was, say, from a plumbing leak, there's a much better chance they'll pay for, at least, a part of it; however, that would then pose a different issue for you - I've seen new policies become very expensive when there are prior water damage claims on the property. 

As for BRRRing out of state being made possible by great relationships with an amazing GC and property manager - these relationships naturally ONLY develop over time (maybe started with turnkey rental and got to know then this way) or are there those GC's and PM's who specifically work with out of state buyers?

People love their animals, so instead of treating their furbies as liabilities, I would say "pets welcome on a case by case basis with deposit" or something of that nature.

If you don't have it, then the next natural step is to partner with someone who has.

Residents also like it when ownership interacts with them and listens to their concerns/opinions as well. 

That will allow you to see what they do, how they do it, and gain favor with them that naturally leads to learning.