I have a few contractors in my market though who have actually expressed interest in the property manager lists - a lot of contractors want to work in commercial work (until they realize all the paperwork invovled, lol) but it seems to be something people want. 

I can only express my concern that your self-created operating agreements could derail whatever legal protection you may be shooting for.Overall, I'm not in favor of spending your limited resources of time, energy and money on creating entities early in your real estate, especially multiple entities.

I have worked for and with a number of hard money lenders, but the level of honesty/transparency and just overall delivery are unmatched.

I’ve had several lenders express interest, but most paused once they learned it was my first project.The builder I’ve selected will serve as the general contractor, with over 10 years of experience constructing multifamily units.I'll like to know if there are lenders who can assist in this situation and provide quotes for comparison before I finalize my decision?

When the SHTF You might see gold buyers setting up card tables in front of closed businesses or inside grocery stores buying all forms of gold.They're not paying top price for this because they have more Sellers than buyers.If you do not take the gold for delivery and have some sort of representative interests in the gold- look up what happened to Iceland during the banking failures.

I understand the skepticism and the concerns expressed. 

Bring documentation showing you registered with DCA, the late delivery date, and proof you tried to resolve this ASAP.

We haven't responded yet.And before anyone asks: There are VERY clear lease terms around the security deposit, ex: "In the event of forfeiture of the security deposit due to Lessee's failure to fully and faithfully perform all of the terms and conditions of this lease, Lessor retains all of his other rights and remedies" ; "Deductions will be made from the security deposit to reimburse Lessor for the cost of repairing any damage to the premises or equipment or the cost of replacing any of the articles or equipment that may be damaged beyond repair, lost or missing at the termination of this lease"; and "Not withstanding any other provisions expressed or implied herein, it is specifically understood and agreed that the entire security deposit aforesaid shall be automatically forfeited should Lessee vacat or abandon premises before the expiration of this lease"What are our options here?

Not including delivery cost.  

Which then causes the milestones or each step to get dragged out due to (way too many people/hands) touching the file.There is a process called ELA or Express Loan approval a buyer can ask for up front.