We've come across this question each time we talk with a host (new or old!) 

In my smaller commercial deals yes I did get the tax return schedule E (bank typically request it too), but on larger deals Sellers declined to provide it and broker said that's fairly common. 

We've come across this question each time we talk with a host (new or old!)

Its easy to lose track of how much one SHOULD have in the bank because its hard to leave money sitting and not working for you.I understand there are many variables such as age of house, age of roof, age of furnace, etc. 

I would look for commercial loans at local banks.

I think this could be a great thing because we could get magnificent properties for pennies on the dollar, all while the people get to keep their credit, and the banks gets their money.

Should I let the bank know that is where I plan on obtaining funds for my down payment or should I go ahead and pull out the amount and put in my bank account before applying for financing ?

., from a "professional lender" that is not a bank: Rates will be higher and less flexibility than with "private money."

I use this to make them upload a DL, paystub, and bank statement. 

We host value add speakers and have a networking session as well.