I'd assume that would play a big part in how they respond. 

Do you ever play pool?

There are certain other requirements such as net worth and liquidity that come into play as well.

There are a lot of factors that come into play with determining what your rate is going to be.

I've been very busy for the last couple of years, and am sinking almost everything into this, including emergency fund and all my "play" stocks. 

You need to set yourself up to play by their rules.

Therefor we again where playing with fire and still had yet to be burnt.

You can't prove they caused the issue or played ANY role in it happening....at least not from what you posted

I'm wondering how HOA fees come into play when calculating investment returns and/or cap rate.

I agree, don't tell on yourself, you are playing poker, don't show your hand. - don't accept the first proposal, add to it or negotiate downward , ask for last 2-3 jobs for references.Don't label yourself - don't talk about your successes.