You won't have a problem renting a condo.
Embassies are the most strict on visas and you will not get one from them unless you meet the exact qualifications. They are a huge pain to deal with even under the best of circumstances.
Your best chance to try to get one is from an honorary consul as they are more lax on the requirements. However, even they have been much more strict in the last 2 years than before. You use to be able to get a friend to write you an invitation letter and some consuls would accept it, but they are few and far between now. I have always had to send a copy of my marriage certificate with a copy of my wife's passport.
Really your only other option for a long term visa is the ED visa for taking Thai lessons. But you are required to attend a minimum number of classes or your visa could be revoked.