But I think this landlord is so self-righteous that they are prepared to buck the system to get what they want.

All additional profit can be distributed as dividends which bypasses self-employment tax.I'm a dumby, not an accountant or lawyer. 

Real estate syndication deals are available on multifamily properties, self-storage, manufactured home parks, land development, hotels, student housing, warehouses, and more.

I also live in Oregon (Eugene) and have a self storage business and some rentals in Temple and Belton, great area!

I am in the process of trying to acquire a few self storage locations, The price is marked at market bid. 

Self storage.  

Even with discounted commission I would whether direct or indirect be paying $35,500 to $60,500 up and beyond what it costs me to get self-licensed after 10 years of not doing any transactions besides this upcoming sell and buy.Negotiations on price:  An agent won't make up for the commission in this in my particular market. 

Do you want to self-manage? 

I think he is trying to find a way to help us buy a house since we are self employed without having to pay 20%  down payment. 

This is a great forum with very knowledgeable members that will help to guide you in the right direction.I really like the alerts feature that can quickly guide you to current topics that may be of interest: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsThere are a few self-contained guides that you can access here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides