PG's are worthless those that have PGs that are worth anything dont need gap funding they have the cash.this is a play for folks you know well .. not for internet facebook BP etc.. people that do this do it because they know you like you trust you and think your a good operator.Public has to many other choices that are much safer bet.. its not always about ROI with those with money..

Again, I am literally a beginner - no properties under my name, no portfolio (yet), still working a W2 job, just looking for DIRECTION and for someone to possibly help me in what step to go in next. 

My name is Rachel!

OP.Use the lookup function, my name and read any post of mine that the title starts with Self Storage.

I don't know the names of any but people on these boards use and could recommend one to you. 

Residences and cars are not purchased in individuals names.  

My name is Felicia. 

There are rules and situations unique to each state and that is why you want to go with a local lender vice someone just reaching out to you telling you they can do it. 2) Better recourse if the lender screws something up: a local lender has more skin in the game so to speak as if they screw something up their name will be mud to local real estate agents in the deal.

Landlords  HML  banks  you name it.my clients that had no debt they rode right through it..

The quicker you can take action on the high dollar value decsions the quicker you will be able to grow.For sure take the time to setup the right foundation, but keeping it simple and easy when you are getting going is a safe bet!