I would certainly try to seek more lenders.  

You should be seeing a career consoler not seeking answers on the inter web.Sorry but you are looking in the wrong place for answers.

I'm seeking advice on how to handle this somewhat touchy situation, as we have to live next-door and these folks who are fairly strange, and we have had some contentious interaction with them regarding their smoking in the property which is a violation of the lease.

I would not seek a private lender first, but would talk to a bank and explain your strategy.

Its why these large companies hire non licensed people to go door to door seeking deals. 

If you are seeking to build a portfolio of rentals over time remember 2 things.

Once you're ready to go out on your own, then seek a small boutique firm, where you won't be required to do any Realtor activities or pay office fees.

I was wondering if anyone had any affordable attorneys that they could recommend for probate.There are a couple of things that I will need to do as well on my end that I was seeking advice on as well.

If he qualifies fine but otherwise hire him to do the work and seek a qualified tenant. 

If someone could provide a solution where I could still obtain financing terms on a 30 yr fixed with 20-30% down this would be a tremendous relief.