@Kristen RayThere is absolutely no statistical evidence to back up the first claim you're citing, which is really "your income is the average of your five closest friends."

They said they won't even lend to an independent buyer if the house has been recently purchased (I don't know what time frame) and is being re-sold at a noticably higher price, even if the buyer had nothing to do with the actual rehab/original purchase.

I would look for a couple independent agents in your area and get multiple quotes.

(statistically a .01% of ever happening) flooding is 20% any given year regardless of your property being in the high-risk flood zone (lender required flood zone) or what is considered a low to moderate risk and all insurance companies know this and this is why they omit it from a policy.

Jason, when it comes to properties over 4 units, you can find many more options with an independent insurance agent.  

I’m an independent contractor in broadcast tv.

What effective options are there for us to accomplish financial independence and passive income rapidly?

Not everyone is - the person may still want their money up front, say if they're selling in order to buy another place.You still need to evaluate the deal independent of any seller financing. 

My goals are to become financially independent, to build wealth, but more importantly to be able to take more control of my life rather than being stuck doing a 9-5 job forever.

For our San Jose market, statistics have shown we get 70% natural turnover every 4 years.