I had looked into Suntrust online before, and the terms you describe sound great, but it didn't seem like there was an interest-only option. 

Thank you @Josh Miller  I just sent you a PM and will definitely be reaching out to your brother, who sounds like a cool guy.

Most of the posts that I read sound like you should be a real estate agent to find the deals.

They are structurally sound but definitely need cosmetic work inside and out.

Sounds pretty good, but I’m unsure of what questions I should ask a broker to confirm they have the ability to benefit my long term goals, and not only their own.

First Bank sounded good, but I see they are owned by First BankCorp, with is a large regional bank, so they are probably out. 

Sounds like a prime market.

Don't respond to any subsequent texts or engage in any back and forth arguments. 

We have some other friends who are going to invest for our initial down payment plus our own money that we are going to put in.We need some suggestions on what a loan from a private investor might look/sound like?

I ended up selling the house when i got engaged and bought a home in Pennsylvania with my now wife.