Large apartment complexes flooded the market with inventory and are offering crazy incentives and amenities that crush the small landlord which can make finding a tenant challenging and often for less than market rent. 

They will look at the ENTIRE cost of the project and calculate what they can offer you in loan amount.

I heard when you're young, it's the best time to take risks, at job that might pay less, but offers knowledge, experience, and growth.

What are the pros and cons of each, and which offers the least restrictions, flexibility and cost savings for my intended purposes?

What they will offer you is an appliance package, or closing cost help, or a low fixed rate loan. 

However, I find myself uncertain about how to structure such deals and whether I could successfully secure them.I was wondering if you could offer any recommendations for educational resources that might help me better understand and navigate the intricacies of creative finance and seller finance deals.

Look at their finishes and what they offer guests, use that as your baseline, then improve upon it.

Finally found this one and took advantage of the low interest rates by winning the bidding war with an offer slightly above asking price.

Some custodians may offer access to platforms with investment opportunities, as well.

Some cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, or parts of Texas offer cheaper homes with job opportunities nearby.If I were you, I'd focus on saving and researching markets that offer both affordability and growth.