For retail many ground leases are 20 year primary term or lower with options thereafter.

Commercial retail usually likes the corners the most.Do you have a map?

You're not buying retail/SFRs.

Everyone is trying to make money along the way and the end user or retail buyer is the one who pays everyone off in the end. 

Have to construct two new floors and rehab one existing retail floor.

I am currently buying a building with a cell tower that had the lease sold, I am buying it from an investor and I plan to put in my retail location into the building.

What would your competitive advantage be using shipping containers compared with the competition using aluminum buildings with garage doors, a retail office, security gates, etc.?

This is hands on experience that you will leverage in any future RE investments.In San Diego with low money down, the property (purchased at retail) is going to be cash flow negative at purchase. 

in a tight market this is a tough gig.. and being a licensed agent that puts the same time effort and money into just getting retail listings will do far better than most wholesalers that spend a ton for each deal.. and have to constantly be marketing.. there is no real referral advantage to a wholesaler.. they beat up a seller.. the buyer your only as good as the deals you bring so they kick you to the curb.. and use you... where as setting yourself up in the business opens up many doors and avenues that you can work in all economies..

I believe that people in disparate situations should be treated with as much, if not more, care, than your average retail seller.