I am an experienced real estate broker based in the UAE for 13 years, working to market and sell UK investment developments and UAE residential developments to international clientele.

I already had built a small tech based startup since 2004, I know I can do things, and as much shame or regret dropping out might cause: its a risk I had to take. ...

I finally realized that I needed a very educational based company and decided to choose the company that offered what I was looking for.  

Wondering if anyone has any advice on banks that would lend in my situation--lending based on the equity in my home alone?

You either need to choose a property that will appreciate a lot or you need to force appreciation by buying a property that needs work at below market value if you want to reuse your original money.Conventional lenders are going to want 6 months of seasoning before you can get an appraisal based on the after repair value.  

If you read up on it minimally, you would probably come to the conclusion that it makes no sense to pay someone to do what you can easily (and cheaply) do yourself.I recommend this, not because it's better than REI, but because (1) it is an alternative and/or (2) it is a pretty decent place to leave your money while you wait for your next deal.  

I'm based out of Florida, but have been investing in Indianapolis as of late.

I personally would suggest raising the rent and adding in a higher Vacancy buffer, especially if you check the local rental rates and see its plausible based of comps.

The property analysis is based on recognized metrics such as cash flow, ROI, IRR, etc.

Looking to utilize the UTK student base?