I feel like I am missing something here... how can I have so much equity and not be able to access it when this is supposedly *the* method?

I'm currently holding a W-2 job to have access to cheap, easy loans. 

(This is often done on a monthly or quarterly basis) Syndications are often 5-7 year commitments, so it is important to know going in that you will have access to the sponsor if you have any questions or concerns about your investment. 

Access, sightlines, junior anchors to drive cross-traffic, rest of center tenant mix all play a part.

Additionally, if rates continue to go down, you have access to the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance which allows you to do a streamline appraisal after at least 6 months of on time payments.

Glad to hear they have had access to bathrooms. 

I highly recommend you refinance into a 30 year loan and access some of that equity to build a real estate portfolio.

When you get into larger (5+ units), mixed use, renovation, vacant buildings, etc. they will need to access commercial policies.  

Example, if I have 100K liquid and readily accessible and I own 2 properties, I can obviously put 25% down for #3 and rent it out but that leaves with me very little wiggle room.

You also have to pay for MLS access.