The building was previously approved for 3 units and an educational learning center in 1978, (so 4 total units but with one of them being used for commercial use), so we are curious if the city will make us go through zoning, and with that, add a sprinkler system to the building. 

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking and is full of great content.I recommend that you check out the following resources:1.

As a layman, I don't run into them, and usually need my cpa to reference one / send it to me to read to educate myself.  

Yes they are more than others, but they have the most comprehensive coverage for STRs.

When you went to drivers education, there was a manual and there was class time.

Determine a goal you’d like to work toward financially, is it “financial freedom” (whatever that means to you), buying a business, becoming self employed, becoming a full time real estate investor, having enough cash for your kids college education, having enough to retire, becoming a centi millionaire, etc.3.

Continue educating yourself through books and online courses tailored to real estate and market analysis.

I have turned down a few apartment scenarios because I am not educated in the commercial arena at the time.

Don't let the distance scare you off too much; there's always a way as long as you are prepared, educated, and confident.

Just want to shorten the learning curve and have structured education.