An independent agent that represents multiple companies would be good as well. 

I would want this experience to bring me closer to being able to run this process independently.

@james Wise My agent is independent but the leasing agent and PM work together.

His money to invest, in exchange for apprenticing the professional, and being fully involved in all aspects of the deals. 1) He'll get much more return on his investment being a partner than any syndication or crowdfunding can offer.2) Learning first hand from a seasoned investor is the best way to become an independent investor (who make the most money in REI)

Can financial independence from cashflow on your properties be achieved just under a decade (9 years)?  

I pay all her bills (with her $); drive her everywhere she needs to go; do all her shopping; go visit her 3-4 times per week (She just moved to independent senior living this past fall); 2) I am a single mom of her only grandchild — there’s no way I’d be here if I were only responsible for myself; and 3) although I’ve cost her as much $ (maybe more, truth be told) as my brother, I haven’t stolen money and things.

After running all the numbers, I chose one of the properties I toured and made my offer.I had an independent inspection done with nothing major found and received a good bank appraisal ($3.5k over purchase price). 

Our aim was to build up a level of passive income for financial independence / security.

Appraisals work the same regardless of the financing since the appraisal is done by an independent party. #3. 30 year terms are not realistic for commercial loans.

Long term goal is to be financially independent on the cash flow i get from the properties.